Sittingbourne Sea Cadets held an open day which included a VIP visitor.

The group welcomed Deputy Lieutenant of Kent, Lt Col Barry Duffield, to its HQ in Crown Quay Lane.

Cadets and instructors were on hand to show potential recruits around the unit and take part in activities such as cooking in the galley and drumming.

There was also a chance to try out radio communications, marine chart reading as well as camp and craft drill.

Lt Col Duffield, who worked with Cadets in making fresh sausage rolls and ladybird biscuits, said: “What organisations like the Sea Cadets do is a really undervalued part of our community.

“Providing a real alternative for young people to experience a wide range of fun and adventurous activities instead of getting drawn into negative activities which are often how youngsters are portrayed these days.

“I take my hat off to the people who give up so much of their time to make it happen and would encourage everyone to get involved in their community in some way.”

Sittingbourne Sea Cadets meet on Monday and Wednesday evening.

• For more information, visit www.sea-cadet.org or call 01795 439334.