Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has officially opened a new headquarters for Sunbury and Walton Sea Cadets, marking the completion of a 13-year project to create a permanent home for local young people.

As Patron of Marine Society and Sea Cadets (MSSC) and Admiral of the Sea Cadet Corps, The Princess Royal met cadets and volunteers, toured the new facility and unveiled a commemorative plaque.

The headquarters provides modern training spaces and direct access to the River Thames, expanding opportunities for sailing, rowing, paddlesports, seamanship, navigation and marine engineering.

Leading Cadet Alice, 16, said: “Sea Cadets has helped me grow in confidence and develop leadership skills. This new headquarters gives us the space to do even more.”

Guy Holloway, CEO of MSSC, described the opening as a "landmark moment" and praised the dedication of volunteers, trustees, supporters and funders who helped deliver the project.

Sea Cadets supports almost 14,000 young people across the UK, helping them develop skills, confidence and leadership through maritime adventure and training.