Although the county of Cleveland was disestablished in 1996, the unit still maintains the name and recruits from its former area, which is now part of the North Riding of Yorkshire and Durham.

[2] Unlike their modern successors, the first cadet battalions were administered by their local County Territorial Force Associations, and rarely ever came under an "army command".

The first mention of the 'Cleveland Army Cadet Force' appears in a supplement to the London Gazette dated 22 October 1974 with the first appointment of an officer.

It is sponsored by the British Army but not part of it and neither the cadets nor the adult volunteer leaders are subject to military call-up.

Their aim is to inspire young people to achieve success in life and develop in them the qualities of a good citizen.