A VETERAN volunteer with Kendal Sea Cadets has been honoured by the Queen’s senior representative in Cumbria.

Clive Sumpter, a stalwart of the North West Area Sea Cadet Corps for 40 years, was awarded the Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificate of Merit, recognised as one of the highest honours in the forces, ranking just below the MBE.

The presentation was made by Claire Hensman, Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, during the awards ceremony at Sedbergh School.

In late 2005, Clive was promoted to the rank of Chief Petty Officer and appointed Officer-in-Charge of Kendal Unit. As well as initiating a total overhaul of the training programme that greatly enhanced the opportunities available for Sea Cadets in Kendal, he has also been instrumental in improving the unit’s headquarters, which for many years was in need of major repair and investment.

During his time in command Clive is said to have ‘transformed Kendal Unit into one of the best in the country’.

He said: "To be presented with such a prestigious award is a real honour. I have enjoyed my service in the Sea Cadet Corps with Kendal immensely and continue to do so in my new role as the Area Staff Officer for the Duke of Edinburgh’s award in the North West. Being able to help even more young people to achieve their goals is very rewarding and being recognised in this way makes all the hard work and long hours worthwhile.”