Keighley Sea Cadets have taken to the water for the first time in their new boat.

The teenagers used the craft, funded by Sovereign Healthcare, during a joint weekend with South Elmsall cadets.

Keighley cadets gained qualifications such as powerboating, rowing, water safety and working as a coxswain.

Sovereign, based in Bradford, provided £2,500 to buy a Trinity 500 boat to be used mostly on Ponden reservoir.

Cadets spokesman Corinne Metcalfe said the cadets had a busy year ahead, ranging from fundraising and field training to an Easter camp for the cadets’ Marines detachment.

Corinne said: “The Keighley unit has experienced numerous changes this year.

“As well as always looking to recruit new cadets we are looking to recruit enthusiastic and motivated staff volunteers.

“We offer a high standard of training courses which are held in high regard when job seeking.”

Further details about joining the cadet group or volunteering are available from Corinne on 01535 661978, or by e-mailing keighleyseacadets @gmail.com.