A group of north-east sea cadets is investing in a new harbour base thanks to a £2,000 grant from an oil and gas firm.
The Fraserburgh unit will spend the donation from Nexen Petroleum on upgrading its facilities at nearby Sandhaven harbour.
The cadets currently use a temporary cabin as a changing room and classroom space.
The Fraserburgh cadets branch is one of more than 400 around the country providing young people with marine and teamwork training and experience.
Craig Trail, commanding officer of the Fraserburgh branch, said: “We’re extremely grateful to receive this generous donation from Nexen.
“It means we can replace the portable building at the harbour, where we plan and run a range of nautical adventures and training for our cadets.
“The youngsters learn new skills that can be applied throughout their lives and boost self-confidence in a fun and interactive way.”
The Fraserburgh unit currently has more than 30 cadets aged between 10-17.
They get opportunities to learn marine activities such as rowing, kayaking and power boating.
The youngsters can also get training in practical life skills and earn qualifications in subjects including marine engineering, first aid and food hygiene.
Francesca Ray, chairwoman of Nexen’s donations committee, said: “By providing new and interesting outdoor experiences, the sea cadets really supports and makes a positive difference to young people across the UK.
“We’re pleased to be awarding this donation to one of our local units to invest in essential equipment to ensure their members can take part in many sea excursions over the summer months.”
She added that “giving back and supporting local communities” was deeply rooted in the Nexen culture.
