The Freedom of South Ayrshire is the highest civic distinction the council can bestow.
Ayr Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets have been awarded the Freedom of South Ayrshire at a special ceremony.
The Freedom of South Ayrshire is the highest civic distinction the council can bestow, and it’s only been granted on four other occasions since 2009.
This is the first time the honour has been awarded to a cadet organisation, recognising the outstanding contribution the unit has made to generations of young people and for their service to the wider community.
Around 70 cadets took part in a parade to mark the occasion on Saturday, August 29. The unit also received a new military colour to mark their 85th year.
This is highly significant and involves the handing over of a consecrated flag — representing the honour, identity, and loyalty of the unit.
Founded in 1941, Ayr Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets have provided opportunities for young people across Ayr and the surrounding area since their inception.
Cadets take part in activities such as sailing, powerboating, paddlesports, camping, while also gaining nationally recognised qualifications and practical life skills.
The unit also plays an active role within the local community, supporting remembrance events, civic occasions, charitable activities and volunteering initiatives throughout the year.
Over the last five years, the unit has worked tirelessly to transform the Foresters Hall in Ayr – contributing around 1,800 hours of volunteer labour to turn the building into welcoming hub for the community.
Provost of South Ayrshire, Iain Campbell, said: “It is a tremendous honour to present the Freedom of South Ayrshire to Ayr Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets during their 85th anniversary year. This award recognises not only the proud history of the unit, but also the remarkable contribution it continues to make to the lives of young people across our communities.
“The commitment shown by volunteers in rebuilding the unit, securing a permanent home for future generations and creating a facility that also serves the wider community demonstrates exactly the kind of civic contribution this honour is intended to recognise.”
Iona McDonald OBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran, said: “As His Majesty The King’s representative in Ayrshire and Arran, I am delighted to see the Ayr Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets awarded the Freedom of South Ayrshire. This prestigious civic honour is a fitting tribute to the dedication, resilience, and service displayed by both the cadets and the incredible adult volunteers who support them.
“For 85 years, the unit has played a vital role in nurturing leadership, confidence, and community spirit in young people across our region. The dedication shown in restoring Foresters Hall into a vibrant community space demonstrates their profound commitment to South Ayrshire. I offer my warmest congratulations to everyone involved in reaching this historic milestone.”
Commanding Officer, Lieutenant (SCC) Duncan McKechnie RNR, said: “The Freedom of South Ayrshire is a huge honour and recognises our significant contribution to the community, particularly over the last five years.
“We have worked incredibly hard to rebuild the unit following Covid. We are now giving young people even more opportunities.
“One of our biggest achievements has been taking on Foresters Hall and, through the commitment of our volunteers and the support of the local community, transforming it from a largely disused building into a thriving community facility.
“To receive the Freedom in our 85th year makes it even more special. It recognises our long history, but also the significant amount that our cadets and volunteers have achieved in recent years. We are incredibly proud to be part of Ayr and South Ayrshire.”
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