Help build a home for Bollington and Macclesfield Sea Cadets

Bollington and Macclesfield Sea Cadet group has launched a fundraising campaign to help them build a new long-term home after spending a decade at Bollington Wharf – which is being demolished.

The group’s target of £250,000 will be used to rebuild a new base on the same site.

Commanding officer Karen Black knows the target is a tough ask but is optimistic of success with the help of a gofundme internet site.

She said: “We will be calling on people for favours as much as we can. We are a charity so we have saved as much as we can. We have got to raise as much money as possible.”

Karen discussed the biggest benefit the new unit would provide to the youngsters, saying: “Probably a sense of ownership. Somewhere they can call their own and display their achievements. Somewhere we can call home and not have to put stuff away.”

First started in 1971, the group has links to the Royal Navy and teaches children skills, discipline and teamwork.

With planning permission for a new building secured, the 35-year lease would cater for the long-term survival of the club.

There are currently 31 children aged 10-18 in the club and they are taught a wide range of skills during their time there.

They learn about the Navy, communication, the weather, tying knots and first aid, with around 25-30 per cent estimated to carry on into the Navy itself.

Joining the club is not just for those who want a future naval career and staff try to go beyond practical skills.

Karen said: “We do teach them life skills. They learn a lot, it is a disciplined organisation so they get a lot of qualifications that they can take into adulthood. I just feel it is keeping kids off the streets.”

Regular sessions run every Monday and Thursday from 7pm to 9.30pm, with further activities at weekends.

The club is run all year round by the 11 members of staff and in the summer the children are taken sailing at Errwood Sailing Club on Goyt Valley Reservoir.

Anyone wishing to donate to the appeal can do so by clicking here.