Overview
This years RN inspection was conducted at our HQ following extensive renovation. This included the replacement of many windows and the building of a new disabled toilet. Inevitibly, the place was a mess and required much painting and tiling and saw leaders and kids working all hours before it was ready for the night.
Guests included the DC, ADC(scouts), ACC(activities), DSL's, District Chairman as well as parents and supporters of the group. Other uniformed guests were the North West Divissional Commander of HM Coastguard and the CO and XO of HMS Charger.
Programme
After welcoming guests and piping aboard the inspecting officer, RN staff officer Sea Scouts Lt.Cdr John Haynes, the Scouts performed a full colours ceremony before going into a well rehersed troop night. Activities included indoor pulling training, first aid scenarios and coastal navigation.
At the end of the night, the Scouts fell in for a formal inspection. The inspecting officer went around each patrol, taking time to talk to every member. He showed an interest in badges and awards gained especially challange badges and nautical skills as these form one of the requirements for retaining RN recognition.
Prior to the inspection Lt. Cdr Haynes reviewed an audit writen up by the group Executive Committee to assess where we were up to and to identify targets for future developments.
The result is that we have retained our RN recognition for a further period as well as receiving many positive comments in the inspection report.
Thanks to everyone for their hard work!
[extract from GSL's report]
