SEA Cadets from around Britain had a whale of a time at a summer camp in Greenock.

It was hosted by Greenock Sea Cadets at their Great Harbour base — the best in the Sea Cadet organisation’s ‘northern area’ covering Scotland and north-east England.

This was the second year of the week-long camp, which was attended by 30 junior and seven senior cadets as well as 14 adult volunteers, including a chef.

That was double the number from last year, and it is hoped to double it again next year.

Greenock Sea Cadets’ officers were delighted with the success of the camp.

Lieutenant Commander Jim Hearl said: “It was brilliant. The sun shone and everyone had a great time.” He added: “There’s no point in our investing money in these facilities if we can’t share them. The youngsters got the full benefit of the camp, and hopefully they will tell their pals about it and more will go along to the Sea Cadets.” And Lieutenant Commander Michael O’Connor MBE said: “We were delighted to welcome everyone to Greenock so that they could make use of our great facilities.” The camp was organised by Lieutenant Liz McVinnie, area staff officer for juniors.

She said: “We are very grateful to Greenock for letting us use their base. It’s the best in our northern area, and gave cadets the chance to take part in a wide range of activities.

“Everything was geared towards their training, and none of it would have been possible without the generosity of the Greenock Sea Cadets.” The youngsters took part in powerboating, rowing, sailing, water Olympics, archery, orienteering and walking along The Cut.

They also visited the helicopter rescue base at HMS Gannet in Prestwick and, under supervision, got the chance to steer a fleet tender boat on trips to Rothesay and Millport.

The cadets came from Fraserburgh, St Andrews, Aberdeen, Jarrow, Newcastle, Hartlepool, Dumfries, Dalbeattie, Kirkcudbright, Paisley, Grangemouth and Greenock.

The local cadets included 11-year-old Carly Joyce, who said: “We had a great time.” Most of the volunteers came from Greenock and Dalbeattie.

Lieutenant McVinnie said: “All of the volunteers gave up their own time to be here. They were brilliant.”