Eastbourne Retro: Look back at when HMS Puncher sailed to Eastbourne

A shipload of Naval cadets sailed in to Sovereign Harbour on Monday, July 25, 2011, as the last port of call on a six week, eight country exercise.

They were met by the Carolyn Heaps, the Mayor of Eastbourne at the time.

Lieutenant Lee Vessey said: “We have been out to Germany, the Netherlands and other parts of Europe helping the cadets develop skills needed for a career in the Navy.

"We even became the first Naval visitors to a Polish town since World War Two which was brilliant and we were treated amazingly.

“It is the opportunity of a lifetime and a chance for the cadets to learn some really valuable life skills and it improves their self-esteem.

“We are heading home tomorrow but we made sure our last stop would be here in Eastbourne and welcoming the mayor on board is a great chance for the cadets to showcase all they have learnt at sea.”

Mrs Heaps added: “This is a real perk.

“The tie-in with MHS Puncher is a fantastic affiliation to have and I have been really impressed by what I have seen.”

Eastbourne Borough Council renewed its historic affiliation with HMS Puncher in December last year.

The current Mayor of Eastbourne, Councillor Margaret Bannister, signed a Memorandum of Understanding alongside representatives from the Royal Navy, ‘cementing the commitment to mutual support and engagement’.