The future of Burnham and Highbridge’s long-running Sea Cadets unit has been secured after Burnham-On-Sea.com ran a story about its funding crisis last month.
Carol Roberts, the unit’s chairwoman, says a number of funders have come forward after our story here highlighting its shortfall of funds.
“Burnham and Highbridge Sea Cadets have been overwhelmed by the response of the local community following the recent article on Burnham-On-Sea.com highlighting the plight facing of our unit.”
“Following on from the article we have been approached by one of the trustees of the Aaron Lewis Foundation, run by a local retired Lt. Colonel, and after speaking with them, they have agreed to provide £1,000.”
“We have been granted permission for fundraising collections with local supermarkets and garden centres, and we have also been successful with our nomination for the Asda green token award. Sedgemoor District Council has also given £500.”
“And a cheque from a retired officer was also given to us by being posted through the unit’s doors.”
“We would like to personally thank all those who have offered their support and particular thanks go to the Town Council, who also gave £1,000, and the Aaron Lewis Foundation for their support, local supermarkets and individuals who have made personal donations.”
“The Sea Cadets firmly believe that we are able to offer our youths a head start and with continued supported of our local community will continue to do so.”
Carol, pictured right, said last month: “We were self-sufficient until last year, but are really struggling following the loss of our main sponsor.”
“We are finding fundraising incredibly difficult and have been cutting back on costs.”
Town councillors awarded a grant to the unit of £1,000 to safeguard the organisation through to the autumn until its new management team has had time to put plans in place for the group’s future. Now the future is looking much brighter.
Pictured: Top, Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge Sea Cadets winning a recent District Colour Party Competition and, above, Chairwoman Carol Roberts at this month’s council meeting
