Sea Cadets" VIP visitorsVIP visitors (From Barry And District News)

Sea Cadets" VIP visitorsVIP visitors

YOUNG Sea Cadets were flying high this weekend, following a visit by the Vice Admiral.

They took to the skies in his helicopter after he inspected the Divisions at HMS Cambria on Saturday.

Barry Sea Cadet unit hosted the visit by Vice Admiral Rory McLean on Saturday.

He arrived at HMS Cambria by helicopter, where an armed guard, comprising cadets from Barry, Penarth and Torfaen units, welcomed the Admiral to TS Cossack, together with the band from Rhondda and Risca.

The Divisions were made up of cadets from Barry, Penarth, Cardiff, Rhondda, Risca and Torfaen units.

VIPs included the Commanding Officer of HMS Cambria, the South Wales District Officer, the Assistant District Officer and the Commanding Officers of units present.

There were also some specially invited guests, including the Mayor of the Vale of Glamorgan Cllr Emlyn Williams and the Barry town Mayor Cllr June Germon, who inspected the Divisions.

After completing the ceremonial duties, the Admiral and guests retires to the wardroom for refreshments - while the cadets took to the skies.

The Gazelle helicopter, in which the Admiral arrived, was made available for a group of cadets from each unit.

With the safety brief out of the way, the ground crew ensured the cadets were safely secured in the helicopter before each flight of about 10 minutes.

They flew out over the Channel towards Penarth, then towards Cardiff, over the Millennium Stadium and back - and it was an experience they'll never forget!

* If you are aged over 10 years and are interested in doing something different, then the Sea Cadets could be for you. For further information contact Barry Sea Cadets on 01446 701390 or email barryscc24@aol.com or email Penarth unit on richier09.phillips@tiscali.co.uk