SEA cadets have enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of Hartlepool RNLI station.

They were able look at the protective clothing that is worn at sea, have a close look at the inshore lifeboat and the navigation equipment.

Station mechanic Garry Waugh said: "It was a pleasure to meet the cadets who asked a variety of interesting questions and who knows one day one or two of them may become volunteer lifeboat crew members here as well."

The Sea Cadets' Acting Petty Officer Victoria Parkin said: "Learning about sea safety but having fun whilst doing it is very important.

"We have learnt about the work of the charity and the vital role that the volunteer crew members do and we were also told what to do and who to contact in the event of an emergency whilst at sea or on the shore."