Launch of new Trinity 500 pulling boats at Chester-le-Street Unit - 26th March 2011

The day began early with cadets rehearsing the day's programme. All were in good spirits and it was clear that the cadets and guests were thoroughly enjoying themselves. All went well with the parade, colours, and then the official blessing and launching of the two Trinity 500s. Afterwards the Unit provided an excellent buffet that was enjoyed by all. Click on the photo to enlarge - the back button will return to this page.

The new boat ready for launching Morning rehearsals This one is for grandma
practising for colours Victor Spong awaits the Lord Lieutenant - Alfie Simpson watching the cadets The parade begins with the District Flag in full view Flag bearers await the dignatories
The Marine Cadets are part of it and looking smart in their distinctive uniform The sea cadets await inspection Cllrs Alan and Beaty Bainbridge with Mr Ian Wilson, Rotary Club
Cllrs Beaty & Allan Bainbridge, Cllr Mac Williams, Mr Kevan Jones, Mr Ian Wilson, and Mr Mons White Cadets parade in front of the local dignatories and guests The parade continues
Cllr Mac Williams talks to on eo fthe cadets, chairman of Durham County Council Dignatories chat to the cadets
Lord Lieutenant, Sir Paul Nicholson, talks to a cadet Steve Grainger and the Lord Lieutenant The armed Guard
The band The Lord Lieutenant cuts the ribbon Reverend David Tully blesses the boats
Reverend David Tully bless the boat Victor Spong - Chairman of the local branch of the MSSC that kindly donated the boat, addresses the crowd Sir Paul Nicholson talks about the new Trinity 500
Cllr Mac Williams launches the first Trinity The first Trinity is launched
Mr Kevan Jones MP North Durham launches the second Trinity 500 Mr Kevan Jones, MP North Durham, laucnhes the second boat The District Office, Lt Cdr Alfie Simpson, talks to one of the cadets
The second Trinity 500 is on its way into the river The safety boat crew The race is on
The boats line up ready to start the pulling race There isn't much in it as the cadets urge their boats forward The cadets look as though they are enjoying the pulling competition
and home again The end of the day with Evening Colours