Bollington & Macclesfield Sea Cadets turned out in force on Thursday 10th October, for their Annual Royal Naval Parade (RNP).
The RNP is the final and ceremonial part of a three part inspection regime, where the Royal Navy ensure that the unit is operating safely and correctly, meeting RN guidelines for training and activities. It was carried out by the North West Deputy Area Officer, Lt. Collin Jones RN and the Manchester District Officer, Lt. Cdr. (SCC) James Garner RNR.
Parents and family of the cadets were invited, together with local dignitaries, such as the local MP, David Rutley, who said “It was an honour to be at the Bollington and Macclesfield Sea Cadets’ Annual Royal Naval Parade. It is clear that the cadets, staff and volunteers all worked incredibly hard and are a real credit to our community.”
Additional VIP’s included the Mayor of Bollington (Unit Vice President), Commander Phil Russ RNR, CO of the North of England Naval Reserve unit at HMS Eaglet in Liverpool and representatives from the Lions, Round Table and Macclesfield Masonic Lodge.
Also attending were the family of the late Harry Gaskell, Unit Vice President and President of Bollington British Legion and Mrs. Margaret Lloyd, widow of Lt. (SCC) Terry Lloyd RNR, who was a valued member of the Bollington team for many years, before becoming CO of Winsford Unit.
The evening started with a formal parade and inspection, carried out by the District Officer. Both he and the Deputy Area Officer then met dignitaries and parents to chat about the activities and experiences of the cadets over the last twelve months.
This was followed by a series of presentations by the cadets, showing what they’ve learnt in particular activities (Expedition work and First Aid).
DSC_0577_2The festivities ended with the Evening Colours ceremonial and the inspecting team made comments about the cadet’s performance, dress and bearing. The District Officer complimented everyone on their turn out and said that Bollington was the smartest of the eight units in the Manchester District.
The Deputy Area Officer and Cdr. Russ RNR presented the unit with a new Sea Cadet Standard and commented on the cadet presentations and how they were both informative and amusing. The Deputy Area officer said that Headquarters were satisfied that TS Ardent more than met the requirements of the Royal Naval inspection.
The overall score from the three part inspection will determine whether or not TS Ardent retains the coveted ‘Burgee’ Status – the highest award possible, for a sixth consecutive year. The Commanding Officer, Lt. (SCC) Karen Black RNR said that Ardent deserved to retain the Burgee, as all the team had worked really hard during her first year in charge and she was extremely grateful for their support.
The results should be known by the end of October.