SEA cadets will benefit from a good-as-new boat after money was given to get an out of service vessel back in action.

The repair and reconditioning of Marlyn for use by Ellesmere Port Sea Cadets won funding from the Haven Academy.

The academy is funded by boat insurance expert Haven Knox-Johnston and the awards are judged by a panel of experts chaired by yachtsman Sir Robin Knox-Johnston.

The academy was launched by Sir Robin last year to provide funding to boating projects in need of financial assistance.

After presenting the award in the restoration category and cheque for £3,000, Sir Robin said: “The boat will be restored to a seaworthy state and given to local sea cadets as a much needed training and support boat.

“The restoration work will be carried out by volunteers, sea cadets and apprentices from the Heritage Boatyard at the National Waterways Museum making it a really valuable local community project.”

On collecting the award, Steve Stamp, of the Boat Museum Society, said: “This is a real opportunity for us – not just to ensure the restoration and a new lease of life for an otherwise forgotten boat but because it means so much to all the people who have worked on her and will continue to benefit from her use.

“So many people have been so passionate about this project – it's a great day for us all.”