BLACKBURN Sea Cadets are on the crest of a wave after winning a major award.

The unit has been presented with a burgee - a maritime distinguishing flag - following a Ministry of Defence inspection.

The ministry looks at every sea cadet group each year, assessing them on everything from how the youngsters perform in training to how well the unit is run in general.

The top 20 per cent receive a burgee and the next 60 per cent a pennant for their good work.

Commanding Officer Lieutenant George Barrow said: "This is the second year running we have received a burgee and we have had a burgee or pennant every year we have been in existence. So we are doing quite well.''

The unit is also celebrating winning two second places and a third in the district rowing competition held at Preston docks.

It still has some vacancies for new members. Anyone interested should go with their parents to the old Mullards canteen, Glenfield Park, Philips Road, Blackburn, tomorrow at 7pm.

Volunteer instructors who have skills they can pass on to youngsters are also needed. Naval knowledge is not necessary and training courses are available.

Instructors in engineering and office skills and a bandmaster are most needed but assistant electrical instructors and a cook/steward would also be welcomed.

Anyone who can help should attend any Tuesday or Friday meeting or contact Lieutenant Barrow on 01254 680446 or 01254 776578.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.