PARENTS worrying about their child’s future should look to sea and naval training for reassurance, according to new research.

The My LegaSea study, published last month, saw youth charity Sea Cadets survey more than 3,000 of its former members - enlisted from 1942 to 2001 - to discover how its training impacts young people’s lives.

Most of the charity's units are currently delivering training and meetings online during the coronavirus pandemic, including TS Dido in Bolton.

The survey found that former Sea Cadets felt their happiness and wellbeing improved during their time with the charity, as well as their ability to cope with challenges.

And 95 per cent of respondents said the charity had "a positive impact on their life long after leaving."

Recently the Bolton branch of sea cadets has been particularly active on social media, hosting virtual monthly meetings and training events on Zoom.

And last week some of its members gained their silver and bronze Duke of Edinburgh awards.

Bolton Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets work with young people aged 10 to 18 to help them develop a brighter future.

Veronika Neyer, youth policy director at Sea Cadets, said: "The researchers discovered amazing human stories about cadets becoming Olympians, diplomats, naval officers, search and rescue experts, teachers, lecturers and CEOs.

"The survey also identified many life-long cadet marriages and thriving friendships maintained across oceans and time zones."

More information about the Bolton Sea Cadets can be found on the group's Facebook page.