A CADET is battling against more than 20 others across the country in a bid to win a prestigious award and a trip to South Africa.

Josephine Fisher, of the Southend Squadron of Air Training Cadets, is hoping to be named one of the nine winners of the CVQO Duke of Westminster Award.

She recently competed in a fourday selection event in Somerset, which challenged 24 cadets in communication, teamwork and leadership skills.

But fewer than half of the cadets entering the event will make the cut to go on the threeweek expedition to South Africa, where they will complete an environmental and cultural project.

The cadets nowhave three weeks to submit an essay on leadership and management before finding out if they have been successful.