Portland Sea Cadets were proud to have their achievements throughout the year recognised at a prize-giving ceremony in front of officials, parents and friends.

The Isle of Portland Sea Cadet unit, TS Penn, was honoured to have the Mayor of Portland, Councillor Carralyn Parkes, inspect the parade at its annual prize-giving evening.

Awards mark the cadets' successes in all of their various afloat and ashore activities over the past 12 months. 

Cllr Parkes also presented A/Cdt Edmund with the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award certificate and A/Cdt Lily with the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award certificate.

Members of the Portland Branch of the Royal Naval Association (RNA) attended the evening, during which the chairman of the RNA, Mr Alex ‘Dusty’ Miller, presented the Diamond Community trophy to joint winners; Cadet 1st Class Sophie and Cadet Isabelle, who have both supported numerous local community events through the year including civic services. 

The evening also included a presentation showcasing what the cadets have learnt and the fun that they’ve had over the last year.

Lt (SCC) Rachel Harris, the Commanding Officer of the Portland Unit, said: “We have had a fabulous year, with the cadets representing Portland at high-profile events throughout the country, competing in various competitions right the way up to the national level, having great fun out on the water and challenging themselves on adventurous activities.

"It’s just great to recognise all of their achievements in this way, and we really appreciate the fantastic support that we receive. The cadets thoroughly enjoyed the evening, as did all the guests."

The Portland Unit was founded in 1956, the same year that the RNA Portland Branch was formed. The unit took its name from Admiral Sir William Penn (1644 - 1718), an English Quaker and founder of Pennsylvania, USA.

Rachel Harris added: "We currently have vacancies for new volunteers, if you would like to visit us and have a chat about joining and helping the cadets achieve their goals, please check out our website for opening times, address and contact details."

The Portland Sea Cadets can be found online here: www.sea-cadets.org/portland.