A NAVAL recruit from New Brighton is on course for a career at sea after completing the first stage of training.

Trainee engineer technician Stuart Brooks arrived at the gates of HMS Raleigh in Cornwall in March and has now undergone a 10-week course designed to teach recruits the basic skills required by all sailors.

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

 former pupil of Wallasey School previously worked as a cook in a community centre. He said: "I joined the Navy for the excellent training and career prospects.

“Ten weeks of initial naval training at HMS Raleigh has enabled me to make the switch from a civilian into sailor thanks to the excellent instructors.”

With the first phase of his training complete Stuart will transfer to HMS Sultan, Hampshire, to 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 vital components in the ship's workshops.