The event, attended by The Admiral of the Sea Cadet Corps, HRH The Princess Royal, saw cadets from across the UK showcase their precision and ceremonial finesse in front of family, friends and invited dignitaries. 

For Katie Mackenzie-Hastings, a member of the Hull Royal Marines Cadets, the win was the culmination of months of hard work and commitment. Katie said: “We started training in September 2023 for the District Drill Competition which took place in January. We won first place which put us through to the area competition with a team of nine cadets including Guard Commander, Cpl Oliver Reid, who issued the commands as part of a ten-minute routine. I really enjoyed the experience and have come away with a lot of good memories. I met people from other teams from around the UK and made new friends.”  

Points were awarded for the group’s march on and guard routine, inspection, free drill display, their march past and march off, plus overall effort and effect. The group’s guard commander was also awarded points for inspection and personal drill, plus power of command.     

Katie, who is currently mid-way through her GCSE exams, first joined Hull Royal Marines Cadets at the age of thirteen in March 2022. Since then, she has grown close bonds with the other cadets and hopes to pursue a career in the forces after college. 

Reflecting on her journey so far, Katie said: “Lt Kerr and Sgt Featherstone are really supportive and always look out for us no matter what. They put in time for us to learn the routine and encourage us to perform to the best our abilities. I hope to join the forces after I finish college and maybe join the Navy or the Army.”

The Hull branch of the Sea Cadets aim to give young people an experience that will help them grow into the person they want to be in a safe and friendly environment. Through various activities and adventures, young people learn teamwork, respect, loyalty, self-confidence, commitment, self-discipline, honesty and how to be the best version of themselves. 

Based at 118 Argyle Street, Hull, the cadets meet every Monday and Wednesday between 7.00pm and 9.30pm. For further information, visit: www.sea-cadets.org/hull/ 

ABOVE: Major Glanville helps Katie Mackenzie-Hastings prepare for the competition. [Credit: Hull Royal Marines Cadets]