The Staff and Cadets from T S Danae Sea Cadet Unit in Hitchin recently held a thank you to our sponsors evening. Those invited along included the town Mayor, representatives from companies that have helped the Unit, members of Hitchin RBL Branch and the County Youth Officer Mrs Lesley Starr.

The Cadets gave us a slide show and talk on their visit to T S Wildgoose, the area boating station at Thrapston.  There, Cadets take part in sailing, power boating and pulling.  This is a former quarry now filled with water, the wind blows across this area quite strongly so its very easy to be blown into the trees on one side, very useful experience for all kinds of boatwork.

Two Cadets also gave us a talk on their week spent on T S Royalist, a square rigged brig owned by the Corps.  A number of years ago, I (the CYO) spent a wonderous week on this ship.  The cadets learn to handle the rigging in all winds and weathers.  To feel and see Royalist respond just by pulling on the right ropes is an experience of a lifetime. Ever watched a pirate film and wondered what its like working those sails and living on such ships. well Royalist gives a good taste of this. Cadets can be sponsored to spend time on Royalist.

During the evening, the Chairman of Hitchin Branch also formally presented the Certificate of Affiliation between the branch and the Cadet Unit. A very good time was had by all.