Northampton Sea Cadets' inspection impresses visiting VIPs

Lt Clare Read was presented the Presidents Cup

The unit was visited by a number of VIPs including the Deputy Lord Lieutenant Sir Peter Ellwood CBE DL, Admiral Sir John Brigstock KCB DL and Commander Charlie Bagot-Jewitt Royal Navy, the Eastern Area Officer for the Sea Cadets.

Demonstrating their ceremonial expertise and putting on a short demonstration of activities undertaken throughout the previous year, the 85 cadets’ ‘efficiency’ inspection was declared a resounding success.

The unit Commanding Officer said: “the strength of the Sea Cadets is in the variety of activities and opportunities we offer the young people.

“Having a strong Royal Marines Cadet detachment and Junior Sea Cadet section additionally enables us to proudly offer the largest range of adventurous youth training activities to young people of all abilities from 10 to 18 years.

“However, none of this would be possible without the hard work the volunteers that guide, support and provide the resources for our young people to succeed.”

The evening was rounded off with the presentation of the Barling Cup for outstanding efficiency in Eastern Area Sea Cadets.

Petty Officer Cadet Alex Hearn received the award on behalf of the unit from Sir Peter.

The Area Officer s commended the unit’s efforts with local partners including the university to expand its island location facilities.

During the evening one of the unit’s long standing volunteers, Lt Clare Read was presented the President’s Cup for her outstanding contribution in her role as Commanding Officer of Northampton Sea Cadets between 2012 and 2016.

She was honoured to be the first recipient of the award marking her dedication to the Corps as a volunteer over the last 25 years.

Lt Read joined the corps as a cadet in 1987 and became a volunteer when 18 in 1993 and joined the unit in 1997 progressing to the role as the District Training Officer for District Officer Northamptonshire.

The group have also been honoured with Leading Cadet Jessica Evans appointed as the Borough Mayor’s Cadet for 2017-18.

Jessica will represent local young people at a number of civic events over the mayoral term and was presented with a certificate to mark this occasion .