On Tuesday 15 July as part of my Community Group Tours programme I returned to the Hornchurch and Upminster Sea Cadet Unit (TS Hurricane) to present a portrait of HM Queen Elizabeth to their Commanding Officer, Chief Petty Officer Sarah Butcher (see pictures).

The work of this unit and indeed other cadet organisations is absolutely tremendous. Dedicated volunteers give up their time to contribute to their community by teaching young people new skills, inspiring them to try new things and equipping them with the things they need to get a good job and achieve their aspirations in life.

I was so impressed with the work of the unit that I felt it would be a good gesture to give them an up to date portrait of HM The Queen which they could display in their Wardroom.

If like me you’re interested in supporting the Sea Cadets and Havering’s other cadet organisations then please get in touch and give them your support (details below).

Best wishes,

Michael

Air Training Corps – www.aircadets.org

Army Cadet Force – www.armycadets.com/home

Police Cadets – www.met.police.uk/cadets

Sea Cadet Corps – www.seacadets.ms-sc.org

St. John’s Ambulance – www.sja.org.uk/sja/young-people/cadets.aspx

Last week I visited Hornchurch and Upminster Sea Cadets as part of my tour of the borough meeting local residents and community groups.

The Sea Cadet Corps, like the other military and police cadet organisations is a fantastic way for young people to get involved in activities they would never have the chance to do in school. The sea cadets I met were doing everything from sailing and first aid courses through to shooting and communications, as well as visiting ships of the Royal Navy!

What struck me was the ethos of the unit, which like its counterparts in other organisations, is focussed on teamwork, leadership building, improving confidence and helping young people to develop and grow.

When I was younger, I was fortunate enough to spend several years as a member of the Sea Cadets and it was really good to see that the work of the Corps is going from strength to strength.

The cadet organisations make a really positive contribution to the lives of our young people and also to the wider community and I would encourage anyone who is interested to visit the units. There are plenty of opportunities for both young people and adults which can be found by clicking on the links below.

Best wishes,

Michael

Air Training Corps – www.aircadets.org

Army Cadet Force – www.armycadets.com/home

Police Cadets – www.met.police.uk/cadets

Sea Cadet Corps – www.seacadets.ms-sc.org

St. John’s Ambulance – www.sja.org.uk/sja/young-people/cadets.aspx