YOUNGSTERS with the spirit of adventure have been urged to join in the fun with Ayr's new Royal Marines Cadets.

The Royal Marines Cadets (RMC) are part of the Sea Cadets and enjoy a host of exciting activities on water as well as serious adventure training on land.

The Ayr unit is now launching a brand new RMC detachment - and has vacancies for young people aged 13 to 18, who will get the chance to specialise in orienteering, field craft, camping, weapon handling and shooting.

Also on offer are rock climbing, sailing, windsurfing, rowing, powerboating, ceremonial drill and parading with a band, first aid, engineering and even weather forecasting.

The RMC detachment is being set up after the Ayr Sea Cadets secured a lease of the Foresters Hall building on the town's New Road last month - finally giving the group a home to call its own.

Royal Marines Cadets take part in competitions and are awarded badges for skills and qualifications including Royal Yachting Association, Duke of Edinburgh's Award, BTECH and British Canoeing.

As cadets hone their skills, they can also compete in the Gibraltar Cup at the Royal Marines Commando Training Centre in Devon, testing themselves on the world-famous assault course.

You can also join as a Junior Cadet at the age of 10 and enjoy summer camps and making new friends as you head towards becoming a Royal Marines Cadet at 13.

The advantages of being a Royal Marines Cadet include national and international travel, gaining confidence in new situations, feeling more in charge of yourself and making a good impression.

Ayr Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets meet in Foresters Hall at 46 New Road, Ayr KA8 8EX on Tuesdays between 7pm and 9.30pm.

Sub-Lieutenant Duncan McKechnie RNR, the unit's commanding officer, said: "Ayr Sea Cadets have had a challenging few years, though we certainly feel we've come out the other end with much to look forward to.

"One major aspect of this is our brand new Royal Marines Cadets detachment, which is being led by two very experienced and committed volunteers."

Sub-Lt McKechnie added: "Ayr Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets like to think of ourselves as a second home for our cadets, and we look forward to welcoming newcomers very soon!"

The unit can be emailed at ayrseacadets@gmail.com or by calling 01292 288962.