Exmouth Sea Cadets are about to start building their new Camperdown Terrace HQ and need a helping hand to make their vision a reality.

They have raised 87 per cent of the cost of the new building - but now need to raise the balance.

Unlike the Army Cadets and the Air Training Corps, the Sea Cadets are a charity and not funded by the Ministry of Defence. The new building has been designed so the ground floor can be used by other Exmouth groups and organisations.

The rest of the building includes a large drill deck/hall with changing and toilet facilities, including a disabled toilet.

The first floor will accommodate classrooms together with the administration offices.

The lease on the cadets’ current building has expired and the premises is falling part.

Chairman Tony Griffin said: “We have raised £452,000, which includes the £150,000 grant awarded by East Devon District Council.

“We urgently need to raise the balance of £68,000 to meet the time schedules imposed by some of the funders.

“Our current premises are rapidly deteriorating and will not be able to be used for much longer without considerable expense being incurred, and the lease has already expired.”

If you can help out, contact Tony on 01395 568441 or email agriffin@btinternet.com.