AN adventurous teenager from Bolton will run a half marathon to raise funds for the Sea Cadets.

Along with fellow former cadet Jordan Connor, they hope to finish the Great Manchester Run in less than two hours and 45 minutes to boost funds for the national youth charity.

Nicole Gildert, aged 18, joined the Sea Cadets four-and-a-half years ago and was selected to be a First Sea Lord cadet for her area in 2017.

She now plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the Sea Cadet Corps and was involved in the commissioning of the UK’s new aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, by Her Majesty the Queen at the end of last year.

Miss Gildert said: “Sea Cadets, to me, is like a whole new family, you can meet so many new people from around the country but also gain whole new experience you never thought you could achieve at the age you are.

“Sea Cadets has given me so much confidence and a focus for the future, before I joined I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life.

“I have new dreams now to join the navy and progress through the ranks there and to also hopefully inspire new generations to join the corps.”

The Sea Cadets gives young people the opportunity to build life skills and boost confidence through activities on the water.

Bolton Sea Cadets runs activities every weekend from its base at 101 Castle Street, Bolton, BL2 1JP.

The Great Manchester Run takes place on Sunday, May 20.

To sponsor Miss Gildert and Mr Connor, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/halfmarathon2k18