A 15-year-old North Cestrian School pupil has made history by becoming the third consecutive Mayor's Cadet of the Year from the same Altrincham unit - an unprecedented achievement in Trafford.
William Homan, a Royal Marine Cadet with Trafford Sea Cadets, will accompany Mayor Cllr Jane Brophy at Armed Forces events across the borough, with his first engagement being The Battle of Britain Parade.
"I am delighted to have been selected as the new Mayor's Cadet of the Year," said William. "This is a huge honour for me and I am really looking forward to attending events across the borough with the Mayor."
The Altrincham-based Trafford Sea Cadets unit has now achieved a first - holding the Mayor's Cadet position for three consecutive years running.
In 2023-2024, Cadet SGT Madison Grace served with distinction, representing The King and Queen at the Coronation and escorting The Freedom Flame with Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on national television during the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Madison is now preparing to study Warfare at university with ambitions of becoming a Royal Navy Officer.
In 2024-2025, LC Cadet Sophia Keefe took on the honour. She recently passed her Royal Navy entry tests and will begin her naval career this September. She also won the National Careers Challenge and serves as her school's anti-bullying ambassador.
William brings impressive credentials to his new role. Already a black belt in martial arts, he has recently attended the Royal Navy School of Physical Training with the aim of becoming a Royal Navy Physical Training Instructor.
He is also a qualified Youth Instructor at British Military Martial Arts, where he coaches fellow students, leads sessions for younger children and provides practical demonstrations.
Mayor Cllr Jane Brophy said: "Well done to William for being named the new Mayor's Cadet of the Year. What a fantastic and intelligent young man - his family must be very proud. I am delighted William will be accompanying me at events in our borough."
Petty Officer (SCC) Stuart Hurlston, Detachment Commander, added: "This extraordinary accomplishment is a testament to the talent, dedication and excellence that this unit continues to produce. Our young people are making an exceptional contribution to both their community and their country.
"This year, our unit proudly celebrates 81 years of service to the local community. Joining the cadet forces doesn't mean you have to pursue a military career, but it can open that pathway if you wish. Above all, the cadet experience gives young people the building blocks for a successful future, whatever path they choose."
