Irvine Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets helped roll out the red carpet for a right royal event.

The cadets were on parade at the official opening of Port Edgar Boat Station at South Queensferry by HRH Princess Anne.

The Princess Royal is Admiral of the Sea Cadets and the youngsters were accompanied by cadets from units across the country for the event on the River Forth.

Known as the country’s hardest-working royal, Anne arrived in the capital city by helicopter before heading to Port Edgar Marina.

The cadets marched off to the music of the Royal Marines Band then tried out some of the facilities on offer including sailing, windsurfing, paddle boarding and other water-based activities.

Captain (SCC) Craig Hamilton RMR, training officer for the Royal Marines Cadets in Irvine, said: “It was a great experience for both the cadets and staff involved on the day.

“Meeting HRH Princess Anne, the new Admiral of the Sea Cadets, and seeing all the amazing facilities at the boat station is an experience that will stay with the cadets for a long time.

“The Princess Royal was absolutely brilliant and spent so much time with the cadets. She was genuinely interested in the training and opportunities that the new boat station at Port Edgar gives them.”

For more information about Irvine Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets, email co@irvineseacadets.co.uk