Cadets from Whitehaven Sea Cadets were all smiles last week as they received recognition for all of their hard work so far this year.

At a special awards event in the Rum Story Courtyard on Tuesday, the cadets were presented with a host of certificates and awards by former Royal Navy sailor and long term supporter of the unit, Gerard Richardson MBE DL and John Baker, CEO of the Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners.

Mr Richardson said: "It was a real honour to help present awards to the unit and I for one council be prouder of how they have continued to rise from strength to strength, despite everything that's happened over the last few years with Covid.

"Whitehaven Sea Cadets have always been there to assist with events in the town including all the Maritime Festivals and Tall Ship visits over the years, so it was a delight to be asked to help them in return."

Whitehaven News: Gerard Richardson handing over an award Gerard Richardson handing over an award (Image: Supplied)

This was to celebrate qualifications gained in subjects ranging from First Aid and Mountain Biking, through to rank advancements which are achieved when cadets work their way through a specific training programme featuring subjects such as boat work, drill, seamanship (ropework & rigging), personal values and leadership.

Two cadets also gained vocational BTEC Level 1 Qualifications in Teamwork, Personal Skills and Citizenship which provides recognition of skills gained through Sea Cadets that are often transferable into the world of work.

C.P.O. (SCC) Stuart McCourt, commanding officer at Whitehaven Sea Cadets added: “We are only a quarter of the way through the year but the cadets have been working so hard, and going away on so many camps and courses, that we had to put on a special event because we had so many certificates to hand out.

"Our huge thanks go to Gerard Richardson and John Baker for giving up their time to present the certificates and to the Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners for hosting us in such a fantastic venue.”

Whitehaven News: John Baker of the Harbour Commissioners handing over an award John Baker of the Harbour Commissioners handing over an award (Image: Supplied)

Whitehaven Sea Cadets have a 70+ history in Whitehaven but they are short of volunteers and are calling for help. If you think you can assist in any role ie management, fundraising etc please contact the unit asap.

Experience in business, the military or working with school-aged youngsters would be useful but not essential.