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Captain’s BZ: Spring 2024

Captain Sea Cadets celebrates some of the achievements of cadets and units around the UK - this issue, the spotlight is on Tameside

Captain Sea Cadets Neil Downing
Captain Sea Cadets Captain Neil Downing RN.
BZ is a naval term that means ‘well done’. It comes from the Bravo and Zulu nautical signal flags being flown together.

I’ve been celebrating the achievements of the cadets, volunteers and units who are embracing our Future Ready Strategy and inspiring others to do the same. This issue, I’m shining a spotlight on Tameside Unit, who have shown the incredible benefits of going for growth.

Overcoming challenges

Less than two years ago, Tameside Unit was facing closure. Emerging from the pandemic with only four cadets, they then suffered the tragic loss of their CO. But thanks to the hard work of their volunteers, led by Unit Chair Hilary Morrison, they now have more than 50 cadets and new supporters across the community.

Cadet receives their award
Tameside’s first female Mayor, Councillor Tafheen Sharif, presenting prizes at the unit’s awards night in December

Winning teams

The rapid growth of the unit produced some competitive teams. Well done to the five-a-side footballers (below) who won two trophies and were overall champions at their district football competition. Congratulations also to the RMC Detachment, which won selection as North West Area’s representatives for the Gibraltar Cup for 2024. 

five-a-side team

Outstanding leadership

Much of Tameside’s recent success has been driven by positive energy of their Commanding Officer, Lieutenant (SCC) Tom Singleton-Kelly RMR (below, front centre), who at just 22 years old has been awarded the McCarroll Trophy for the outstanding Royal Marines Cadets Instructor of 2023. I salute Tom’s achievement, and thank all the cadets, volunteers and parents who have supported his efforts.

Tameside unit

Photos: Sea Cadets

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