Media release for immediate use 20 July 2010

Port Announces Support For Sea Scouts

Lyttelton Port of Christchurch (LPC) has announced it will be a major sponsor of the Lyttelton Sea Scouts’ centenary celebrations.

The Lyttelton Sea Scouts Group currently has 50 members aged between 8 and 18 who learn about seamanship and earn badges by participating in challenging activities both on and off the water.

LPC Chief Executive Peter Davie says they are pleased to be able to support the local Sea Scouts.

“LPC is committed to supporting activities which bring the local community together,” he says “Lyttelton Sea Scouts have a long and proud history of fostering the skills of young people and providing them with opportunities to extend themselves and develop teamwork skills.

“Many Lyttelton families have been associated with the Sea Scouts over the years, including some of our staff, so we are excited to be involved with the club’s centenary and we are sure the celebration will be an event to remember,” he says.

The earliest record of Lyttelton Sea Scouts dates back to 1910 when group members helped escort Captain Scott out of Lyttelton harbour on his ill-fated expedition to Antarctica.

Early Sea Scout boats were made from wood to meet specific Sea Scout cutter specifications. Around 35 years ago Lyttelton became the first group in New Zealand to have a fibre glass cutter. In February 2010 Lyttelton’s newest and third Sea Scout cutter The Lyttelton was launched.

The Lyttelton Sea Scouts will hold its centenary celebrations from 12 to 14 November 2010. Dave Sanders, Lyttelton Sea Scout Reunion Chairman, says the centenary event is only made possible by the hard work of many volunteers and the generous support of Lyttelton businesses.

“The support we have received from local businesses has been amazing,” he says. “Youth organisations like ours rely on the support of others to undertake projects like this and the willingness of companies such as LPC to help is invaluable to our centenary celebrations.

“LPC’s support will help us with the logistical costs of running the event and help us promote the event to the community. We look forward to working with LPC and are sure this event will be a highlight for the whole community.”

The centenary celebrations will include a meet and greet event, regatta day and a gala dinner and “Gang Show” at the Old Orchard.

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