Cumbria's cadets have embarked on their first major foreign training expedition in more than 20 years.

The 35 lucky youngsters, aged between 13 and 17, jetted off to Cyprus on Saturday for a week-long adventure which will see them take on a number of challenges as well as broaden their horizons.

Colonel Anthony Steven, county commandant for Cumbria Army Cadet Force, said the trip was an "essential first step" in getting the county involved in more adventurous and challenging activities.

"We haven't done a foreign one of anywhere near this size in more than 20 years," he said. "I think it's important because my personal mission is to make a quantifiable improvement to the life outcomes of a generation of Cumbria's army cadets and adult volunteers.

"This exactly the sort of the difference I mean."

The focus of their trip, named Ex SIMBA'S SUN, will be a three-day hike around Mount Olympus, which sits at 1,952m.

Heat and the rugged terrain will also pose challenges to the youngsters who will each be carrying full kit on their back.

While there, they will also experience a traditional Cypriot Mese dinner, take a military swimming test and carry out a range of water-based pursuits.

Another highlight will see the cadets visit British Army soldiers from their parent regiment, the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, at Eposkopi Sovereign Base Area.

There they will take part in a series of activities, including equipment familiarisation, before tucking in to lunch with the soldiers of the battalion.

Cadet Lance Corporal Max Brough, 13, of Aspatria, said: "I have been looking forward to this experience since it was first announced and I am very grateful and proud to be representing Cumbria Army Cadet Force on this once in a lifetime opportunity. I am most looking forward to the expedition as it will give me a huge sense of achievement to accomplish such a unique challenge. "

Cadet Lance Corporal Stephen Rogers wanted to thank everyone who had made it possible for him to take part in the adventure.

"I am really excited to have this opportunity and experience," said the 16-year-old, from Whitehaven. I cannot wait to get there and have a fab time with my friends."

Cadet Corporal Jess Smith, 16, of Cleator Moor, added: "This is the best opportunity I've had in my life. And it all boils down to the hard work of all the adults and staff at the ACF they work all day and all night to make sure cadets like me and others make sure that our childhood is the best and set us up for future careers. "

For many this will be their first time abroad and for all of them, the first time they have walked in such hot, dry conditions.

The cadets have undertaken two preparation weekends, working up to walking 30km with full kit, but in Cyprus they will be walking a total of 50km with the kit and equipment when they take on Mount Olympus.

It will also provide the chance for the cadets to pass certificates and qualifications.

Sponsors, including Sellafield Contractors Group and the Michelle Jurd Memorial Trust, have ensured every cadet who wanted to go was able to.

Col Steven added: "I just feel this is so important for young people in Cumbria to have these opportunities. I want to make a difference to their lives. I want them to succeed."