Cambridge University Officer Training Corps (OTC) has new leadership after Lt Col David Love MBE formally took command of the unit last week.
Cambridge University OTC is one of many units based in higher education institutions around the UK that’s affiliated with the British Army. Each offers students unique experiences and opportunities to learn new skills.
Our region’s famous OTC draws students not only from the University of Cambridge but also from Anglia Ruskin University, the University of Essex and the University of East Anglia. Outgoing commanding officer (CO) Lt Col Matt Helsby officially handed over to Lt Col Love at the start of the month.
Reflecting on his appointment, Lt Col Love said he is “genuinely excited to be stewarding the Cambridge University Officer Training Corps over the next two and a half years”—which is the usual length of service for a CO. He described the OTC as “an institution unlike any other—rich in history, distinctive in character, and with far-reaching influence”.
Lt Col Love feels a real sense of responsibility in leading a unit with such a long heritage. He added: “I’m reassured by a team that is deeply committed to creating meaningful opportunities and outcomes for the young people it serves.”
He also paid tribute to his predecessor, saying: “The unit has been handed over in excellent shape, thanks in no small part to the vision, leadership, and sustained commitment of the outgoing Commanding Officer.”
Cambridge University OTC provides leadership development, adventurous training and military skills for students across East Anglia. It offers undergraduates new ways to challenge themselves and forge new bonds in addition to those of their academic studies, helping to strengthen the connection between Defence and society.
East Anglia Reserve Forces and Cadets Association manages the Army Reserve Centre in Coldhams Lane, Cambridge, where the OTC trains alongside officer cadets in the University Royal Naval Unit (URNU) Cambridge. Their sister unit, the Cambridge University Air Squadron, trains elsewhere in the city and at RAF Wittering.
