A new partnership has been agreed between a leisure complex in Cornwall and a Royal Marines Commando unit.

The China Fleet Country Club at Saltash will be welcoming 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines and their families following the agreement.

The China Fleet Trust, which owns the country club, has become affiliated with 47 Commando.

The affiliation was formally recognised with the unveiling of a new addition to the club’s heritage area and the joint signing of a partnering agreement.

The trust’s charitable objects are to provide quality leisure and recreational facilities to its beneficiaries, including all serving members of the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, the Maritime Reserve and their families.

The Commando unit’s personnel are often seen on the River Tamar near the country club, exercising from their base, Royal Marines Tamar, in Devonport.

Rear Admiral John Weale, the chair of the trustees, said: “It is fantastic to have 47 Commando from Royal Marines Tamar affiliated to the China Fleet Trust and our country club.

“We look forward to supporting them and their families, providing a venue and facilities where they can relax, stay and enjoy the splendours of the South West.”

Colonel Rich Maltby, the Commanding Officer of the unit, said: “The China Fleet Trust has been providing unparalleled support to the naval service for decades, and I’m very proud to be able to announce that 47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines will be benefiting from a bespoke affiliation as we sign an official partnership between our organisations.

“As the Commanding Officer of a busy operational unit, I am grateful to the trust for this partnership.

“At a time when the demands upon our service personnel remain high and the cost of living impacts, the benefits this affiliation will provide welcome support to all members of 47.”

The trust also has an affiliation with HMS Tamar which is currently deployed on a mission to the Asia-Pacific.