A small group from TS Royal George – the Ryde-based unit of the Sea Cadets – recently took to their canoes and kayaks for a paddle up and down the River Medina, clearing away discarded rubbish found in the river and along its banks.
Setting out just after 08:00 on 30th June from their new boat station at Island Harbour, the cadets (along with their adult instructors and friends of the unit) paddled up to Newport Quay before turning around and heading back to Island Harbour.
Along the way, the cadets collected an impressive haul of items – most surprising of which was a supermarket trolley that was carefully lifted into an open canoe paddled by 2 experienced adult volunteers. Other large items found included a motorcycle tyre, pallets and a suitcase.
After being treated to a BBQ lunch at Island Harbour, the cadets set out again this time on foot to clear the footpath along the riverbank, both back towards Newport and towards the Folly Inn.
TS Royal George is one of two Sea Cadets units on the Isle of Wight. Based primarily in their HQ in Station Street, Ryde, the unit accepts children aged 10-12 as Junior Cadets on a Friday evening between 18:45 and 21:00, and for children aged between 12 and 17 as either Sea Cadets or Royal Marine Cadets on Tuesdays and Fridays, again between 18:45 and 21:00.
The unit is always keen to hear from anyone interested in joining, and not just as a cadet. The unit would also welcome anyone adults who would be interested in helping the cadets. A previous military career is not essential and the unit arranges all necessary training. Ryde Sea Cadets can be contacted on 01983 566696.
