A 17-year-old inspired to be a policeman after growing up on an estate surrounded by crime, has been commended for his work as a police cadet.

Sutton police cadet James Palmer was commended by borough commander Guy Ferguson for his "professionalism, leadership and dedication" in helping run a joint Metropolitan Police and Army course in Wales to divert youths from crime and re-offending, aged just 16.

Cadets co-ordinator PC Peter Lytton also received a commendation for his "leadership and professionalism as the strategic lead" on the course.

James, who said growing up around crime on the Sutton estate inspired him to want to be a police officer, said: “It was pretty challenging (running the course) and very intense because, as we expected, they didn’t always want to do what they were told.”

James thanked his grandfather for his support in joining the cadets.

Sutton’s Police Cadets, aged 14 to 18, have now outgrown their Tuesday evening meeting venue at Overton Grange School, Sutton.

With a membership now of 85 cadets, a second police cadet group has been formed to meet at John Fisher School, on Thursday evenings.

Both groups run from 7pm to 9.30pm.

For further information on joining, contact PC Lytton at Sutton police station on 020 8649 0698.