Last updated 15:54, Wednesday, 07 May 2008

THE former Commanding Officer of Whitehaven’s Sea Cadet unit was being honoured last night by the Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, Colonel James Cropper in a ceremony at Cumbria Police Headquarters.

Sub Lieut (SCC) Keith Crowe, RNR, was in charge at Whitehaven for five years until he handed over command in February this year. Under his leadership the unit grew from a total complement of fewer than 20 cadets to its present strength of 27 cadets, 15 junior cadets and eight Marine cadets.

In 2007, Keith’s hard work and dedication were recognised when he was selected as the Sea Cadet North West Area’s nominee for receipt of the Captain Roddie Casement Sword, awarded annually to the Unit CO who has, by example and dedication, contributed most to the aims of the Sea Cadet Corps. At the time, Keith commented that the nomination really belonged to the whole Whitehaven team.

Speaking about the Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificate, which is to be presented this evening, the Whitehaven Unit’s chairman, Chas Tinkler said that it was a fitting tribute marking the end of Keith’s time as CO.

He said: “Keith has worked tirelessly on behalf of the unit and this award is very well deserved. Keith’s achievements have set us on a firm foundation on which we can build and move on to even greater successes in the future.”

Keith’s involvement with the Sea Cadet Corps started nearly 30 years ago when he joined as a Whitehaven cadet and the tradition has continued in the Crowe family – his son Scott was also a Whitehaven cadet until he left to join the Royal Navy last year.

Although he has relinquished command Keith is still very much involved with Whitehaven Sea Cadets as a member of the Marine Cadet Detachment staff.