The Bootle group chairman, Peter Levick, recently had the pleasure of presenting a cheque for £2,500 to Sefton sea cadets on behalf of West Lancashire Freemasons charity.
The unit, no 48, is based at T.S Starling in Litherland. T.S Starling has been serving South Sefton as a valuable Youth Training resource since 1942 and has been at the current site since 1975. The unit has strong links to Captain Johnny Walker, the famous U-Boat hunter. Captain Walker was given command of HMS Starling, then being built in Glasgow in February 1943, and gained several successes in the battle of the Atlantic.
The unit has a current complement of approximately 70 cadets and has the facilities for a further 30.
The Cadets learn valuable life skills in a fun and safe environment, within a disciplined structure based on the customs and traditions of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.
As a Sea Cadet you can go to sea, learn to sail and do adventure training, all on a naval theme, plus get extra qualifications to give you a head start in life
Cadets have the opportunity to take part in shooting, kayaking, sailing, cooking, engineering, camping or out at sea on a real Navy warship
The Sea Cadets is the UK’s largest maritime youth charity and If you are between 10 and 12 you can join as a Junior, 12 to 18 as a Sea Cadet and 13 to 18 as a Royal Marines Cadet and join 14,000 other Sea Cadets across the UK
The commanding officer, Ken Griffiths, invited Peter levick onto the deck to make the presentation in front of the whole ships company. The commanding officer stated “he was thrilled with this donation and thanked the masons for this and the support they have given the unit over the years”.
Peter stated “West Lancashire Freemason’s charity is delighted to support the uniformed organisations” and he congratulated the unit for the “positive impact it has had in the community”.
It is anticipated that the donation will to assist with improvements to class rooms and security for the site.
Bootle Group Chairman, Peter Levick, presenting the cheque for £2,500 to the Commanding Officer, Ken Griffiths with Petty Officer Sean Kerns.
The Ships company parade on deck.
Steve Smith
Bootle GPO