Queen’s award for Portrush Sea Cadets

Portrush Town Hall hosted a special award ceremony last Thursday night when the TS Duke of York Cadets recieved The Queen’s Golden Jubilee Award.

The award, an MBE for volunteer groups, recognises and rewards excellence in voluntary activities carried out by groups in the community.

Lord Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mrs Joan Christie handed the award over on behalf of the Queen.

Adressing, those present, Chairman, Ian McCullough paid tribute to the young people involved: “I believe, of the 400 units within the Sea Cadet Corps throughout the United kingdom, Portrush is the only Unit to be granted recognition given in honour of its volunteering achievements.

“I am honoured and humbled to accept such on behalf of my predecessors and present shipmates and management colleagues.

“Many volunteers commence their interest in Portrush Sea Cadets by joining as a cadet, spending six to seven years learning and earning valuable qualifications in, sailing, canoeing, abseiling, first aid, communications, cook-stewarding, power-boating, rock climbing and much, much more.

“The expertise conveyed by the qualified volunteers to the young cadets, not only gives the cadet a head start in life, it boosts the confidence of the volunteers when they see these young people progressing.

“The dedication and generosity of these remarkable and committed people, each of whom has devoted his or her time and energy to the simple aim of making their communities – and their country, a better place.”

He went on: “To everyone who has volunteered - tirelessly over the seventy year history of Portrush Sea Cadets, each having witnessed moments of heroism and heartbreak that will live long in the memory - this spectacular award– The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the MBE for volunteer groups, is a fitting tribute to seven decades of volunteering.”