Inspection is plain sailing for cadets

ATTENTION! Lt-Colonel John Davies inspects Oldham Sea Cadets. Pictured, 10-year-old junior cadet Christopher Marsland

OLDHAM sea cadets sailed through their annual inspection.

The Derker-based unit came under scrutiny from Lt-Col John Davies, of the Royal Marines, to ensure that they meet the highest standards.

The area officer spoke to cadets and had a tour of the unit headquarters before watching two displays by the youngsters.

Daniel Ashworth was named Cadet of the Year while Christopher Marsland was chosen as Junior Cadet of the Year, both cited for their hard work, determination, attendance and helpfulness.

=The uniformed organisation is based on the values of the Royal Navy and is open to girls and boys aged 10 upwards. Anyone interested in joining should ring 0161-620 4161 for details.

CPO Philip Maycock, officer in charge, said: “The evening went extremely well but none of this would have been possible without the determination, enthusiasm and helpfulness in raising money for the ongoing repairs, and to keep the unit running, by the cadets, dedicated staff, parents and unit committee.”


Awards galore for school detachment

Royton cadets staged their first public parade at Out Lady’s School for the Queen’s representative in Greater Manchester.

The Lord Lieutenant, Mr Warren Smith, was principal guest when the Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation students received over 200 certificates in recognition of their achievements.

The cadets are members of the Royton Detachment, Greater Manchester Army Cadet Force, and have outstanding results in Heartstart qualifications and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award physical section.

Students who join the school cadet unit study for additional vocational qualifications, including the BTEC Diploma in Public Services at levels 2 and 3.

Heavy rain forced the parade into the school hall but did not deter over 100 parents, local dignitaries and over 130 cadets from the Air Cadets, the Army Cadet Force and Sea Cadet Corps from joining the celebrations.

Roger Whitaker, head teacher, said : “I am very proud of our cadets’ achievements. There is no doubt that the cadet syllabus is an excellent addition to the traditional academic curriculum and provides young people with a very balanced skill set with which to approach their chosen careers.”