Wootton Bassett Sea Cadet Allan Timmins has been named the unit's cadet of the year. The 16-year-old from Wootton Bassett received his trophy at the cadet's annual inspection on Thursday.

The inspection was carried out by deputy area officer for the South West Lt Commander Peter Simms. Twenty-two cadets, including a four-man armed guard, took part.

Wootton Bassett sea cadets chairman Duncan Wostenholm said: "It was a very successful evening and we had nothing but good reports from all the VIPs."

Following the inspection cadets simulated boating exercises including escorting a VIP round a harbour. Chairs were used to simulate boats with parents kneeling down to hold oars as the cadets escorted mayor Susan Cooksley to an imaginary harbour.

Cadets then gave a presentation about what they do and who they were to the gathered audience of more than 50 people.

Awards were then handed out and included the Bravo Zulu trophy for the most points accumulated in a year, won by ordinary cadet David Grimes, 14, of Brinkworth.

The Trafalgar trophy for endeavour was awarded to cadet Oliver Gresham, 14, of Wootton Bassett in the senior section, and to cadet Douglas Stinton, 12, of Cricklade in the junior section.

Duncan Wostenholm said: "All the cadets have done very well this year and I'm glad that more are continuing to join. This year our report from the inspection rated as 'good', which is one level up from last year's report of very satisfactory and that is pleasing."

The weekend prior to the inspection 15 cadets travelled down to Portsmouth to visit their affiliated ship HMS Turbulent. Although military duty prevented the cadets from going on board they were able to visit its sister submarine HMS Torbay.

The cadets were also taken for a tour around a type 22 frigate.

For more information about the sea cadets please call Mr Wostenholm on (01793) 812 916.