The chairman of the Falmouth branch of the Royal Naval Association expressed his surprise and pride after being “ambushed” following the annual Sea Sunday parade and church service.

The event, which attracted service veterans as well as civic dignitaries and members of the Penryn and Falmouth Sea Cadets and police cadets, representing the younger generation, was blessed with fine weather as is tradition.

Last minute changes had to be made when the Culdrose Volunteer Band was called away at short notice, leading to the City of Truro Pipes and Drums stepping in to lead the parade. The band, made up of mainly young people, was led by 16-year-old pipe sergeant Brandon Tuffery from Falmouth.

The parade itself formed on The Moor and then made its way to Falmouth Parish Church were the service was held before the parade reformed and marched down to the Maritime Museum were a reception was held.

It was at this reception that local RNA chairman, Mick Stephens, found himself the centre of some unexpected attention. He had been fully being expecting to announced that branch president, Commodore Tony Hogg, had been made a life member of the RNA branch, but he was unprepared for what followed.

Writing on Facebook he said: “Those that know me will know that I am not comfortable speaking in public, so having steeled myself it gave me the greatest pleasure to award our President, Commodore Tony Hogg Life Membership on behalf of the branch.“To then be 'ambushed' and awarded Life Membership by the Branch I found to be a very 'emotional' occasion. To all our branch members I thank you for this honour.”

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet:

Falmouth Packet:

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