One of the city's longest running youth organisations celebrates its centenary next year and preparations have begun ahead of the special date.

The Norwich Sea Cadets mark 100 years on June 14 and they are appealing for any former cadets, staff or supporters to play a part in their celebrations.

The unit has welcomed thousands of the city's young people over the years with many more lending their help, and chairman Irene Spinks is hoping as many as possible can attend their series of events next year.

Mrs Spinks said they were currently trying to locate former cadets and volunteers.

She said: 'The more the merrier really, especially if they have photos to show and stories to tell.'

On Thursday, the current cadets were able to witness an important part of the unit's history when a special medal won by a former cadet was shown.

The event was made even greater for the group as they did not know the Cornwall medal was still in the city until Mrs K.C. Masters arrived at the TS Lord Nelson, on the River Wensum, last weekend.

Mrs Masters boarded as part of the Norwich Heritage week to learn more about her father Donnie Masters, who had served with the cadets.

Lieutenant Derek Grieve, advanced seamanship instructor, said: 'She did not know a lot about what he used to do, so came on board virtually the whole day looking through the history books.

'When she told me she still had the Cornwall Medal, I asked if she could bring it down and show us.'

The Cornwall Medal was awarded to one UK sea cadet a year during the 1930s and 1940s for excellence in seamanship. The group's history books describe that cadets from the unit had twice won the medal, but they did now know where they were.

Lt Grieve added: 'There was only one medal issued and of course the standard was very, very high, way beyond most things the Sea Cadets do.'

Mrs Masters said: 'I was very pleased to show the medal to the unit. My father always said that out of all the medals and decorations he received whilst serving in the navy, the one he was most proud of was the Cornwall medal.'

If you are a former cadet or volunteer contact Mrs Spinks on 07900922886 or email norwichseacadets@hotmail.co.uk

Is your group or club celebrating a special milestone? Contact reporter Richard Wood on 01603 772423 or email richard.wood@archant.co.uk