Young people at Worksop Sea Cadets are preparing to strike up a new tradition in the town thanks to a £1,300 Councillor Community Grant.
The funding has helped the unit's newly formed Corps of Drums purchase essential uniform items, training equipment and additional instruments, enabling the group to become fully operational ahead of a busy summer programme of parades, community events and Armed Forces Day celebrations.
Established earlier this year, the Corps of Drums has quickly become an important part of the Sea Cadet unit, providing young people with opportunities to develop musical ability, teamwork and confidence while representing their community.
One of the key motivations behind creating the Corps was the absence of a marching band at Worksop's Remembrance Sunday parade in recent years. The long-term ambition is for the cadets to help restore the traditional atmosphere and musical accompaniment at remembrance services and civic events across the town.
Lt (SCC) Sam Bloomfield RNR, Commanding Officer of Worksop Sea Cadet Unit, said: "We are grateful to the councillors for their continued support. This funding directly enhances our ability to equip cadets correctly, improve training resources, and further develop our Corps of Drums.
"Since forming in February, the band has rapidly established itself as a core part of the unit, helping cadets develop discipline, teamwork and confidence. The support received reinforces that their hard work is recognised and valued by the local community.
"We look forward to demonstrating this progress at future community events."
The unit currently welcomes around 50 cadets from Worksop and the surrounding area. Through a structured programme of activities, Sea Cadets helps young people develop teamwork, leadership and self-discipline while taking part in everything from adventure training and community projects to practical life skills and maritime activities.
The grant was made possible through contributions from Bassetlaw District Councillors, reflecting a shared commitment to supporting opportunities for young people and investing in community organisations that make a positive difference.
Chair of Bassetlaw District Council and Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Sybil Fielding, speaking on behalf of the councillors who contributed, said:
"One of the most rewarding parts of our role as councillors is being able to support organisations that make such a positive difference in our communities. Worksop Sea Cadets are a fantastic example of that, providing young people with opportunities to build confidence, learn new skills and feel part of something bigger.
"This support reflects our shared commitment to investing in local groups that bring people together and create a strong sense of pride in the area. We're especially pleased to see the continued growth of the unit and the enthusiasm of its cadets.
"On behalf of all the councillors who contributed, we're proud to play a small part in helping the Sea Cadets continue to thrive in Worksop."
The councillors who contributed towards the grant are: Cllr Sybil Fielding, Cllr Lynn Dixon and Cllr David Pressley, Ward Members for Worksop North West; Cllr Julie Leigh and Cllr Tony Eaton, Ward Members for Worksop South; Cllr Cliff Entwistle, Ward Member for Worksop East; Cllr Alan Rhodes, Ward Member for Worksop North East; and Cllr John Shephard, Ward Member for Worksop South East.
Worksop Sea Cadets celebrated its 80th anniversary last year and remains the oldest and only Sea Cadet unit in Bassetlaw. To find out more or get involved, visit: www.sea-cadets.org/worksop
Each Bassetlaw District Councillor is allocated a small annual budget and has the discretion to award grants to support community activities within their ward. Councillor grants may support projects relating to sport, culture and heritage, environmental sustainability, social welfare and wider community benefit.
Pictured: Lt (SCC) Sam Bloomfield RNR, Commanding Officer of Worksop Sea Cadets; Cllr Alan Rhodes, Ward Member for Worksop North East; Cllr John Shephard, Ward Member for Worksop South East; Leader of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Julie Leigh; Cllr Paddy Ducey, Ward Member for Worksop South; Chair of Bassetlaw District Council, Cllr Sybil Fielding, Ward Member for Worksop North West; and members of Worksop Sea Cadets.
Last Updated on Tuesday, July 14, 2026