With the cadets is Petty Officer Kevin Hoyles

The future is looking brighter for a youth group in Shropshire which has seen a rush of new recruits after its plight was featured in the Shropshire Star.

Telford Sea Cadets, which is celebrating its 65th year, could also now be in line to receive a cash donation which would help buy vital new equipment for the Donnington-based unit, as a result of the article.

The unit, which is the only one of its kind in Shropshire, has reported around a dozen fresh recruits turning up in recent weeks to train at its base in Donnington.

A couple of new members are even set to move from Bristol to be part of the action.

The group was featured in the Shropshire Star in January, appealing for new members ahead of its annual inspection from a high ranking naval officer.

“We have had quite a few people sign up saying they saw the feature in the Shropshire Star,” said Petty Officer Kevin Hoyles.

“And there are two moving up from Bristol. Because we are the only unit in Shropshire they wanted to transfer to our unit.

“It has been very successful. But we are still recruiting – it’s an ongoing thing.”

As a result of the Shropshire Star article the unit could also be in line to receive hundreds of pounds to purchase new gear.

A former member of the unit, 21-year-old Katie Furlong, who now works for RBS in Telford, spotted the article and has nominated the group to receive cash from a forthcoming fundraising event.

She said: “It’s a very worthwhile cause.”

Would-be new members can contact Kevin on 078311 34233 or simply turn up to one of the Tuesday or Thursday sessions which run at the centre in Wellington Road between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

By Ben Bentley