A pair of volunteers have been recognised for their outstanding loyalty and commitment to Sheppey Sea Cadets.

Lt Brian Moore and Albert Wickenden were each presented with a Certificate for Meritorious Service by the Lord-Lieutenant of Kent, Viscount De L’Isle.

Lt Moore, 42, of The Broadway, Minster, was recognised for the high achievement of his cadets at Sheerness and ensuring they have the best opportunities within their activities.

He was also given the honour for giving extra weapons training that led to exceptionally high standards of shooting.

He said: “It’s a very high award as we were told the next one up is an MBE. It is a great honour to be nominated and receive it.

“I know I’ve done a lot for the Sea Cadets but in the grand scheme of things I’m relatively young compared to some of the other winners.

“It was quite a formal ceremony. There were probably 20 awards given out in total across all the services.”

He was congratulated for his devotion, motivation and service.

Mr Wickenden,, 69, of Sheerness, is retired but has been connected to Sheppey Sea Cadets, based at Barton’s Point Coastal Park, for more than 20 years. He served first as a civilian assistant and then as the unit chairman.

He is said to have developed a strong working relationships between the commanding officer, the adult volunteers and the unit committees.

He was nominated for “outstanding loyalty and commitment” to the cadets. Dignitaries from across Kent and family and friends of those receiving awards attended the annual awards for Sea, Army and Air Cadet forces at the Ashford International Hotel on Tuesday, October 29.

Viscount De L’Isle said: “It has been an honour and privilege to present so many awards to those very special sons and daughters who serve our county.”