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The story of Darlington Sea Cadets started in 2018, when the then Lord Lieutenant of County Durham mentioned that she would love to have a Sea Cadets unit in Darlington. 
Local Sea Cadets volunteers took up the challenge but were thwarted for a while by the Covid pandemic. By 2023, they looked to try again but were having real difficulties finding suitable accommodation. That’s when Sea Cadets volunteer, S/Lt (SCC) Mick Snowden RNR stepped in. Mick happened to be an IT Project Leader with leading engine maker Cummins, and he asked their estates team if they had a suitable building that could be used as a Sea Cadets unit. 

“The head of the team asked why I couldn't ask about using the Centenary House canteen on an evening, so I did,” explains Mick. “The leadership, in the form of Cummins Services Regional Leader, Dominic Coles, asked ‘why not?’. That first conversation took place in March 2024. In October 2024, Darlington Unit opened its doors to its first batch of bright-eyed new entries … and has been punching above its weight ever since.” 

The unit’s Officer-in-Charge, Lt (SCC) Gary Appleby RNR, picks up the story. “We are grateful for the support of Cummins which has allowed the unit to go from strength to strength. Because of the hard work and dedication of volunteers and cadets, we were formally affiliated to Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) within just 18 months, in July 2026. We have ten cadets who are now achieving qualifications, attending District and Area courses, and having fun while enjoying the full Sea Cadets experience – including offshore voyages.” 

Ordinary Cadet Daniel said: “It's been really great to be a part of Darlington Sea Cadets – to be part of a friendly group, to have some amazing experiences and to learn so much. It is thanks to the brilliant support of Cummins that we have a location for our meetings.” 

The fledgling unit was also delighted to host an April visit by the national Captain of the Sea Cadet Corps, Captain Hannah MacKenzie VR RN. Captain MacKenzie, who grew up in the area, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to return ‘home’ to Darlington and see the great work that has been done in collaboration with Cummins to get the unit up and running. I had a wonderful evening and was delighted with what I saw.”  

As well as their direct support for Darlington Unit, MSSC is delighted that Cummins Europe has proudly recognised the positive impact of the employees like Mick, who support the Cadet Forces. Through its forces friendly policies, the company supports eligible employees with additional leave to undertake the training needed to serve as Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) and give back to their communities. 

“The cadet movement gives young people opportunities to build confidence, teamwork and leadership, while helping them take on new challenges and build resilience,” said Mick. “I’m fortunate that Cummins supports CFAVs with up to ten days of additional leave to achieve or maintain the essential training qualifications needed to serve as a CFAV. Policies like this are a practical way employers can support youth development and enable their people to give something back.” 

Being a cadet is about so much more than attending each week – it's about discovering what you're capable of.

This National Cadets Week, we're shining a light on the skills a typical unit, Sevenoaks, gives their cadets - from getting potential Navy aviators ready for take-off, to helping sailing stars chart their course towards Olympic competition. Every parade night is an opportunity to develop a lifelong skillset comprising communication, leadership, teamwork and resilience. The lessons and attributes they gain will stay with them long after their time in cadet uniform.

Across the UK, our volunteer-led units are unlocking potential, opening doors and creating brighter futures. By delivering skills for life, we are proud to be helping every cadet find their chance to shine.  

Below are stories from four of our impressive young people about how being a Sea Cadet has impacted them.

Leading Cadet Jonathan

"I completed the Cadet Naval Aviation Course over three separate weeks at Royal Navy Air Stations Culdrose and Yeovilton. It was an incredible opportunity to gain practical flying experience, and I was also lucky enough to be awarded the Daedalus Trophy as the top cadet on the course. 

It was one of the best experiences I have had in Sea Cadets, helping build my confidence, teamwork and communication skills while giving me a much greater understanding of aviation. Earning my Gold Wings was a particularly proud achievement and one I will never forget" 

Leading Cadet George 

"Sailing is one of a multitude of activities that Sea Cadets introduced me to which are now part of my life. The first time I sailed I was terrified of getting wet, but now it is part of the fun. I have improved my skills more than I thought I ever would, winning twice at our National Regatta and recently competing at the Snipe Junior World Championship in Spain.  

Joining Sea Cadets has opened so many doors and had such a positive impact on me. I have had amazing experiences, made friends for life, and now have more qualifications than I can count to fill my CV.”   

Leading Cadet Logan 

"Sea Cadets has made an impact on my life in so many different ways, such as improving the way I conduct myself in my day-to-day life and at school – where being a sea cadet has made me feel more positive about my education. 

Supported by the Sea Cadets Physical Training Branch, I’ve worked hard to earn my Advanced PT qualification. This has enabled me to make an impact by delivering enjoyable sessions to other young people and even adult volunteers. Being a sea cadet has bought out many talents, traits and skills that I didn't know I had or could have.” 

Able Cadet Emily

“I have done many shooting courses and competitions through cadets, such as the Inter-Service Cadet Rifle Match – where I learned to shoot a full-bore rifle at distances up to 600 yards. I finished ninth out of approximately 360 cadets and placed as the top Sea Cadet.  

Because of Sea Cadets, I have been able to try out different disciplines, and my shooting has improved due to the confidence I’ve gained. This has enabled me to become a more independent person and helped me progress through the British Shooting precision air rifle pathway [a programme designed to develop aspiring Olympic-standard athletes]*”

*Cadets are taught drill with parade purpose non firing rifles as part of a structured programme of supervised training that teaches commitment and self-discipline.

First aid is one of the most valuable life skills young people can learn. At Sea Cadets, cadets develop practical knowledge, confidence and leadership through training, exercises and national competitions that challenge them to stay calm under pressure and work effectively as a team.

This National Cadets Week, we're celebrating three cadets whose training helped them respond to real-life emergencies.

Amelia's quick thinking helps save a life

While attending a party with friends, Royal Marines Cadet Amelia came across a young girl who had collapsed and was unconscious.

Recognising that the casualty was unresponsive and not breathing normally, Amelia immediately called 999 and began CPR, following instructions from the emergency call handler.

Thanks to her calm and decisive actions, the casualty regained consciousness before the ambulance arrived.

Amelia remained with the casualty, reassuring her and monitoring her condition until paramedics arrived. She then provided a clear handover to the ambulance crew, explaining what had happened and the treatment she had given.

Her actions demonstrated the real-life value of first aid training and the confidence to act when every second counts.

Daniel springs into action on a busy high street

Fifteen-year-old Lance Corporal Daniel was on his way to the gym when he came across a woman who had suffered a serious fall.

The casualty had sustained severe injuries, including a deep wound to her leg and a broken hand.

While others looked on, Daniel immediately took charge, calling 999, obtaining first aid supplies and helping stem blood loss while keeping the casualty reassured and comfortable.

Hospital staff later learned that the casualty had already been stabilised at the scene thanks to Daniel's actions.

Daniel said:"I just focussed on helping and using the training I'd been given. I'm glad I was able to assist and the first aid training from cadets prepared me to stay calm and know what to do."

Lily-Mae helps during a medical emergency at school

Able Junior Cadet Lily-Mae put her training into action when a teacher suffered a seizure during an after-school session. 

When the teacher collapsed, many pupils were understandably unsure what was happening. Drawing on first aid knowledge gained through Sea Cadets, 12 year old Lily-Mae recognised the situation was serious, guided her classmates out of the classroom, sought help from another teacher and helped keep pupils calm until staff arrived.

Her actions helped protect both the teacher and her fellow pupils during a frightening situation.

In recognition of her actions, Lily-Mae was later invited to meet her local Town Mayor.

She said: When I realised something wasn't right, I went to get a teacher straight away. Afterwards I was a bit shocked by what had happened, but at the time I just wanted to help and make sure everyone was safe.

Sea Cadets has helped give me confidence and taught me what to do in emergencies."

Skills for life

These stories are a powerful reminder that first aid training is about far more than qualifications.

Whether performing CPR, helping an injured member of the public or responding to a medical emergency at school, sea cadets are developing the confidence, leadership and practical skills needed to make a difference.

This National Cadets Week, we're celebrating the young people whose training has helped them step forward, stay calm and help others when it mattered most.

Picture: Lily-Mae taking part in first-aid training at Sea Cadets

Sea Cadets is proud to mark the start of the first National Cadets Week, with a special message of support from our Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Admiral of the Sea Cadet Corps.

The week-long celebration shines a spotlight on the positive impact cadet organisations make in communities across the UK and the opportunities they provide for young people to develop skills for life.

In her message, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal praised the achievements of cadets and the dedication of volunteers who make those opportunities possible.

She said:

"The first National Cadets Week is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of cadets across all our Services and the difference they make in communities throughout the United Kingdom.

"As Admiral of the Sea Cadet Corps, I have seen at first hand how Sea Cadets gives young people from every background the confidence, resilience and practical skills to meet life's challenges. It also instils teamwork, responsibility and a commitment to others.

"These opportunities would not be possible without the dedicated volunteers who give their time, experience and encouragement so generously.

"I am pleased to launch Sea Cadets' celebrations for the first National Cadets Week and send my best wishes to every cadet and volunteer taking part. I hope their example will inspire many more young people and adults to become involved."

Throughout National Cadets Week, Sea Cadets will be celebrating the achievements of cadets and volunteers across the UK, highlighting inspiring stories from units nationwide and showcasing the impact the charity has on young people's lives.

Follow Sea Cadets throughout the week and join the conversation using #NationalCadetsWeek and #SeaCadetsUK.

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.