Maryport’s sea cadets were not only one of the first in the country back in the water but did not let the pandemic slow them down.

Last month TS Caesar, the Maryport Sea Cadet unit, was one of only five to reopen and return to the water.

This came after extensive work by the all-volunteer staff under Officer in Charge Sub Lieutenant Claire Bostel and Unit Management Team Chairman Mark Dawson, supported by the cadets and their parents and guardians.

Although the unit was closed down in March, online activities began as early as May, which even saw two of cadets pass their catering course by being assessed virtually.

Maryport’s cadets beat more than 400 other units to become national boat work champions.

It was these skills that led to them being chosen by national headquarters, to be an activity hub. That meant they were able to open for a range of activities on the water while other units were still closed.