YOUNG people who join the Sea Cadets in Chippenham, Trowbridge and Royal Wootton Bassett in lockdown are still able to learn skills that last a lifetime and could have a big impact on their lives and future careers.

South West chairman Carol Tiley said: “At Chippenham, we love helping young people launch well in today’s world. Watching cadets grow into better versions of themselves is what makes volunteering for this charity so special.

“We aim to give young people an experience that will help them grow into the person they want to be in a safe and friendly environment.

“Through various activities and adventures, we learn teamwork, respect, loyalty, self-confidence, commitment, self-discipline, honesty and how to be the best version of ourselves.”

The charity is looking for new members aged 10-18. In Chippenham, it has 25 cadets and 20 volunteers. Units offer a range of different activities from sailing, windsurfing and powerboating to rock climbing, camping, music and much more, gaining many qualifications.

The Sea Cadets has just published a new report as part of its national My LegaSea campaign to study the impact on former members and how it helped shape their futures.

The 160-year-old charity, which is proud to have the Queen as its patron, commissioned the multi-generational impact study following participation of over 3,000 former cadets dating back to the outbreak of the Second World War.

The report reveals 10 key areas of impact with 95 per cent saying Sea Cadets had a positive impact on their life, long after they left; 80 per cent feeling Sea Cadets developed their independence and skills and 70 per cent agreeing Sea Cadets improved their ability to cope with challenges.

Sea Cadets meet at Long Close, Chippenham, on Monday and Friday, from 6.45pm-9.15pm for 10-12s and 12-18s. To join, email Mrs Tiley at acsw@ms-sc.org