JAMES Furneaux from Dousland, Yelverton, has successfully completed the initial phase of officer training at Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth in his bid to become a Warfare Officer of the Royal Navy.

James, 25, a former Tavistock College student, joined the Royal Navy in February last year after completing a degree in history and politics at the University of the West of England in Bristol.

The course at BRNC sets numerous challenges and there is significant emphasis on developing leadership skills throughout the training. James spent nearly six weeks at sea in the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious operating in UK waters. The time on board provided James (pictured below) and his colleagues with an excellent opportunity to learn how a fully operational warship functions across all specialisations.

James' parents, Lee and Madeline, made the journey to Dartmouth in December to witness the impressive passing out parade when the salute was taken by The Flag Officer Sea Training, Rear Admiral Richard Ibbotson.