History of TS Hastings SCC
The Hastings Unit of the Sea Cadet Corps, although originally formed in 1938 was commissioned on 26th April 1939. In those early days, TS Hastings commanded by Cdr. John Drinkwater, paraded at the former Bathing Pool premises at Marina. The Unit became very popular and soon attracted so many youngsters that, for a time, it was necessary to maintain a waiting list.
The outbreak of war in September 1939 caused particular problems to the Unit because most of the officers and staff, all Royal Naval Reservists were very quickly called up. It was not long before many local children were evacuated resulting in the unit strength being reduced for a short period, to around twenty cadets and one officer. However, on the appointment of Barry Funnell as C.O. the unit quickly expanded again to become a premier youth organisation in the area.
The unit continued to use the Bathing Pool until 1947 when it moved to the RNVR Drill Hall in Cinque Ports Way. Unfortunately, within two years this building was required by the Territorial Army. In consequence, the Unit was pleased to move to the existing council owned site, which at the time was a desolate are of bomb crated foreshore.
The move heralded the commencement of ‘Operation Jack-Built’ which involved the construction of a new unit H.Q. from scratch. It occupied the time of staff, cadets, parents and many other helpers for nearly three years. On completion the Unit became one of the best equipped and best accommodated in the U.K. In 1985 the original timber constructed Orlop deck was replaced with a modern galvanised steel building with thanks to a considerable and very generous donation by the Isobel Blackman Foundation.
Since annual efficiency awards were introduced in 1949, TS Hastings has achieved the highest possible burgee standard no less than 44 times, and currently boasts a continuous achievement of this award since 1972. The unit was judged to be the best in the UK in 1958 and was awarded the coveted Canada Trophy. Twice in the 1980s’ the unit won the Stephenson Trophy as best unit in Southern Area. On this record, TS Hastings is one of the most consistently successful units of the 400 unit in the Sea Cadet Corps. The unit now offers a Marine cadet detachment, and a Junior cadet section for youngsters between the ages of 10-12.