WE all know the importance of life skills, something we all need to help us navigate the obstacle-laden roads we can find ourselves on.

One group which works so hard to equip youngsters with these skills, while also teaching them about team work is Whitehaven Sea Cadets. They also have the opportunity to take part in a fantastic range of activities and gain various qualifications.

The volunteer-run charity has been going for more than 70 years. It used to be based on the harbour but moved to Carter Lane in 2013. Stuart McCourt has been in the cadets for 25 years and the Commanding Officer for two and half years. He is our Person of the Week.

Stuart, 37, is adamant he is only part of a great team - all of whom deserve to be applauded. His hard work and commitment is obvious and no doubt a great example to his cadets.

“I joined at 12, it’s my 25th year. I did six years as a cadet and 19 as a volunteer,” said Stuart, who lives in Cleator Moor and works at Sellafield on the social impact team. “It’s like a family. I have made life long friends, the best men at my wedding were people I had met through the cadets.

“I’ve had so many opportunities, including being crew aboard a tall ship for a week, and done lots of different training. It’s improved my self confidence and developed me in different ways, I’ve learned new skills and had so many opportunities.”

The cadets have two sections: juniors (10-12) and seniors (12-18). There are 12 instructional staff - adult volunteers, many who have been cadets and wanted to help train others, and four trustees.

Pre-covid they would meet twice a week. “We have a structured programme which the cadets go through. We base our customs on the Royal Navy and, on entry, the cadets do lots of training, learn about how to wear the uniform, march, drills and terminology,” said Stuart, who is married to Victoria and has two daughters.

“They become part of the squad and team. It’s great for their self confidence and self respect, they learn about team work and leadership.”

He is in no doubt how much youngsters can benefit. “I think these opportunities are vital. The cadets offer so much nowadays, from BTecs to St John’s Ambulance First Aid skills.

“This is especially good for those who may struggle at school, it’s an opportunity for them to get qualifications.”