President of sea cadets retires at 90 with smile

TONY Hobbs has stepped down as president of Henley Sea Cadets.

He was presented with a certificate of appreciation from the corps at their annual meeting held at T. S. Guardian, off Wargrave Road.

Mr Hobbs, former managing director of Hobbs of Henley, said that as a former Royal Marine and a man of the river all his life it had been a privilege and honour to be president of the cadets.

He joked that as he is now 90 years old with failing eyesight and hearing it was time to step down while he could still take a step.

The certificate reads: “Tony became president of Henley Sea Cadets in 2006 and has been a steadfast supporter of the unit. His dedication to the unit and the development of young people has enabled literally hundreds to progress.”

Phil Fletcher, chairman of the unit, presented the certificate and said: “Tony has been an exemplary president and great supporter, attending nearly all our management team meetings and other special parades.

“His help and that of Hobbs of Henley, Tony’s family business, has been invaluable with advice, help in boat maintenance, buying and selling boats.”

Mr Fletcher said it had been a pleasure to work with Mr Hobbs and thanked him on behalf of the staff, parents and cadets.

Hobbs of Henley has donated the use of its passenger boat The New Orleans annually for the past 34 years to raise funds, achieving more than £40,000.