BOLTON Sea Cadets are on the hunt for able hands to make their new home ship-shape.

Youngsters from TS Dido, currently based at Kensington Place, Bolton, are due to move to new headquarters in Derby Barracks, Fletcher Street.

The Cadets will be homeless by June 1 after the lease expires on the building they use and Territorial Army bosses in the town have stepped in to offer the group the temporary use of two cottages at their barracks.

But they're now looking for some cash to help pay for the conversion of the buildings, one into an administration block and the other for training.

Business-minded cadets have drawn up a list of equipment needed for the work, along with a list of suggested "sponsorship" for the hardware.

Officer Dawn Edmondson said: "The work of decorating, plumbing and heating will be done by Cadets, staff and any other volunteers, but we still have to meet the cost of materials.

"Imagine walking round the Unit seeing a radiator, piping or electric wiring knowing that it was your sponsorship that helped."

The list of sponsorship includes a radiator at £25, gas piping at £18, water piping at £35 and a box of nails and screws at £5.

Work has already begun to convert the buildings which includes renewal of part of the floor and updating the heating and plumbing systems.

Officer Edmondson added: "Hopefully this is only a temporary arrangement whilst more suitable accommodation is sought. We must be realistic in terms of time as it may take up to two years or more before such accommodation is secured."

Anyone who wants to sponsor the Cadets should contact them on Bolton 526749.

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