A BUDDING sailor from Darlington was among the successful Royal Navy recruits on parade at HMS Raleigh to mark the end of basic training.

Trainee engineer technician Stephen Duncan arrived at the training base in Cornwall in March. During a ten-week course he has been given a thorough induction into the Royal Navy, learning skills that he will rely upon throughout his time in the service.

The course culminates with the passing-out-parade attended by families and friends.

Mr Duncan, 22, a former Hurworth School student, was a hotel assistant prior to joining the service. He said: “I’ve been interested in the Navy since school but it was only after college that I decided to join, knowing it will give me a good lifelong career.

"My fitness has been tested and pushed during training. It’s shown me the benefits both physically and psychologically from a healthy lifestyle.”

With the first phase of his training complete, he is heading to HMS Sultan in Hampshire, for his professional course.

There he will learn the skills in marine engineering to keep the ship running smoothly, safely and effectively.

Once fully qualified he will work on everything from the ship's hull and engines to its electrical, fuel, hydraulic and fire fighting systems.

As the ship will be away from port for weeks at a time, he'll be trained to make spare parts and other components in the ship's workshops.

For more details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy, visit royalnavy.mod.uk or call 08456-07-5555.