AN Army cadet is proving it is possible to juggle volunteering work with a full-time job.

Garry Tooey, 23, has become an inspiration for other cadets, thanks to his achievements both within the Army Cadet Force, and outside.

He is manager of McDonald’s, at Basildon Festival Leisure Park, where he is in charge of 84 staff, as well as training future soldiers in his spare time.

Mr Tooey, from Tilbury, took up the post of adult instructor last year, and was selected to become a Second Lieutenant.

He joined the Army Cadet Force in 2002, and within six years he had progressed through the ranks to become Cadet Sergeant Major, achieved Master Cadet status and gained qualifications, including a BTEC with distinction and the silver Duke of Edinburgh award.

Mr Tooey, who went to Gable Hall School, in Stanford-le-Hope, said: “I owe a lot to the officers and instructors who organised and supervised the activities I took part in, and that’s why I do it now.

“The Army Cadet Force exists to provide opportunities for young people aged 12 to 18 to improve life skills and confidence.”

In his spare time, Mr Tooey is attempting to further boost his qualifications by taking on a leadership programme through the cadet vocational qualifications organisation, and is also on target to complete his gold Duke of Edinburgh award by December 2015.

He believes his experience in the workplace, has equipped him the skills to provide challenge, adventure and excitement for young people in Essex.

Mr Tooey added: “I can attribute many of the skills I use daily – such as organisation, planning and team working – to my involvement with the Army Cadet Force.”