A man who has dedicated years to keeping teenagers on the straight and narrow is set to step down from his voluntary position.

Regimental Quartermaster Sergeant Charlie Cooper has been with Walton Army Cadets for 18 years, but will leave in December.

During his time with the cadets he has worked closely with MPs and mayors, but the highlight of his career was organising a memorial for ex-Walton Cadet Major Matthew Bacon, who was killed in Iraq in 2005.

He worked for two years to track down Major Bacon’s family when he discovered his cadet past, something Maureen and Roger Bacon said meant a great deal to them.

A memorial bench and plaque at the cadet headquarters were unveiled in August, on what would have been the fallen soldier’s 40th birthday, with funds raised with Kingstonian FC and the Molesey branch of Royal British Legion.

Sgt Cooper said at the time: “I wanted to do something at the time because I’m an ex-regular soldier myself.

“This would mean everything to Matthew, I hope someone does it for me when I’m gone.”

As a result of Sgt Cooper’s hard work teaching discipline and respect, many of the cadets have gone on to police or army careers.

Dominic Raab MP got first-hand experience of the tight ship Sgt Cooper runs when he visited the cadets in July and was put through his paces during a string of exercises.

Mr Raab said: “Charlie has put his heart and soul into the cadets, instilling confidence, life skills and self-esteem to the great group of youngsters coming through the ranks.

“He will be sorely missed, but I am sure his legacy there will last for a long time.”

Sgt Cooper is set to take on a new role with Surrey Army Cadets so can continue to spread his passion.

A spokesman for Walton Cadets said: “He’s an instantly liked person, as he communicates with you at your level.

“The parents and children at the unit really appreciate Charlie as he works so hard to help each and every kid to better themselves.”