Corps showcase: Pipe dreams

My father, Lt (SCC) Pierlot RMR, was Detachment Commander (DC) at Flitwick & Ampthill Royal Marines Cadets Detachment from 2013 to 2023. I watched my three older sisters join and go through the ranks and was fascinated with all of it. At five I became the unit’s unofficial mascot, which I took really seriously! 

I joined as a junior when I was 10 and took part in my first team piping competition, which we won. I felt like I had an ability there, and my interest was piqued. As soon as I could, I joined the Royal Marines Cadets Detachment. That year, 2022, I was asked if I could fill a vacancy in its piping team. Lt (SCC) Blackstaffe RNR, our former unit Commanding Officer, trained us and we won gold at the area competition, so I had got through to nationals for the first time. 

Just before the national competition I tested positive for Covid, so couldn’t go. I was gutted, but at least our team went on to win silver. The following year, I tried individual piping. I won the district and area competitions, but I didn’t place at Nationals. I was disappointed, but my family told me to try again the next year, so I did. 

In 2024, I got through to nationals for the third time. With the help and training of Lt Blackstaffe, I was able to perfect the individual calls and timings and this time I won! I was awarded my gold medal by HRH The Princess Anne, which was amazing and something I’ll never forget. I was the first Royal Marines Cadet to ever win Individual Piping, making it even more special.

Piping in the house is not my mum’s favourite thing for me to do, but I continued to practise for 2025. With the support of my new DC, Sgt Sorrell, and continued coaching from Lt Blackstaffe, I managed to make it through to nationals for the fourth time. The competition itself was brilliant, filled with very talented cadets who became good friends. I won gold again and was in complete disbelief, but very happy!

Having topped X-Ray Company’s Corporals Board in 2024, I was delighted to then pass my National Sergeants Board in July. As of September 2025, I am Bedfordshire’s new Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadet. My sister also had this role and had some great experiences so I’m looking forward to it. 

I love my detachment; we have amazing cadets and I love being able to learn combat tactics with them. I’ve gained so much in confidence, discipline and skills, and the friendships will last a lifetime. 

Photos: Sea Cadets; PA Images (Alamy Stock Photo)