25/05/2026
A HUGE THANK YOU FROM EVERYONE AT IRVINE SEA CADETS
After what has been an incredibly upsetting and frustrating weekend for the unit, we are relieved to confirm that the stolen engine belonging to the cadets’ safety boat has now been recovered.
This recovery would quite simply not have happened without the absolutely invaluable help, determination, and support of Gabe and Stuart from Ayrshire Drone Dog Rescue - ADDR who went far above and beyond throughout the entire weekend to assist in locating and recovering the engine.
Using their specialist equipment, experience, and sheer determination, they helped locate an engine that had been deliberately hidden and earmarked for later retrieval. Without their support, it is highly unlikely the engine would ever have been found.
Not only did Gabe and Stuart help locate the engine, but the actual retrieval of such a bulky and extremely heavy engine from that area simply would not have happened without them. Their willingness to keep going, assist the volunteers on the ground, and help see the recovery through from start to finish was nothing short of incredible.
As well as the Ayrshire Drone Dog Rescue crew, the help, support, and advice received from the staff at the Scottish Maritime Museum and the harbour management was hugely appreciated and played an important part throughout the recovery process. It really showed this weekend how this part of the town pulled together, worked together, and supported one another to help make this recovery possible.
What makes this even more remarkable is that all of this unfolded while the majority of the Irvine Sea Cadet unit, staff, and volunteers were already away assisting with the running of the Edinburgh Marathon. Without the magnificent support of the local community, additional volunteers, and everyone who stepped in to help, this simply would not have had the positive outcome it has had.
It was clear considerable effort had been taken to conceal the engine, with every indication that plans were in place for it to be collected at a later stage. Thankfully, those plans were spoiled.
What the thieves clearly underestimated was the determination of the volunteers and supporters who fully understand the value this asset holds for the unit and the opportunities it provides to local young people.
While the engine has thankfully been recovered, assessments are still ongoing to determine the extent of the damage caused. At this stage, it may still result in either a substantial repair bill or the need for a completely new engine before the cadets can safely return to full boating activities.
For many of our cadets, boating activities are one of the highlights of their experience — building confidence, teamwork, qualifications, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime. We remain determined to ensure these opportunities continue for the young people of Irvine and the surrounding area.
We would also continue to urge anyone with any information — no matter how small it may seem — regarding the individuals responsible for taking the safety boat and engine to please come forward. Likewise, if anyone involved wishes to now do the right thing, any information provided will be treated in confidence.
We already have some very positive leads, and with the assistance of Police Scotland along with support and information from surrounding maritime assets and the local community, we are already on a strong track towards identifying those responsible.
To everyone who shared posts, kept an eye out, offered support, and helped spread the word, everyone at Irvine Sea Cadets sends a huge thank you.
The community support shown over the last few days has been nothing short of incredible.
Once again, thank you to everyone involved. This recovery truly showed what can happen when a community pulls together. 👏⚓
