Full Sail for Forest of Dean Sea Cadets

Published by Anonymous for Two Rivers Housing in Communities and also in Education, Housing

It’s all steam ahead for the Forest of Dean’s growing Sea Cadet Corp. The group has had a bunk up thanks to a grant from the Big Lottery Awards – won for them by Two Rivers Community Projects fundraiser Jane Cordier.

The grant of £4,500 will provide much needed funds to upgrade their overnight facilities with 40 heavy duty bunks, ensuring cadets can get a weekend taste of life on board a man of war, but on dry land!

It’s all part of the groups drive to teach local kids new life skills, team building and improve self-esteem, in a disciplined environment.

The cadets meet weekly in Naas Lane’s old youth centre in Lydney, which the team have transformed over the last year, getting it ship shape and gleaming, complete with flags, drill hall, and deck with shinning brass capstan and ships’ wheel.    

Sub Lieutenant Mike Chard leads the tight team with a leadership group of dedicated volunteers who give up their time to create exciting new opportunities, in a safe and secure environment, for their young charges.

Sub Lt. Mike Chard said it was an exciting time for the cadet unit.

“Only a year ago we were wondering what the future held, but now we have a permanent home in this beautiful old building, growing cadet numbers, really exciting activities planned, and thanks to Two Rivers’ expert fundraising support we have £4,500 to spend on upgrading our facilities.

“This means we can deliver a much more full filling experience for our Cadets, ensuring they can grow their self-confidence, discipline and sense of responsibility in a carefully managed environment,” he said

Two Rivers community fundraising guru Jane Cordier said there were real opportunities ahead for the Cadet Unit.

“Two Rivers provides ship shape accommodation for local people at a low cost, helping them and their families stay in the communities that matter to them. Good homes are the building blocks of a prosperous economy and healthy community. It’s all about supporting communities, which is why we help groups in our communities to grow opportunities for all,” she said. 

The Sea Cadet Unit now has big ambitions to buy their HQ. This substantial gift has opened new doors for these young people wider than they hoped, bringing endless opportunities to their team.