A 22-year-old from Cresselly is one step closer to achieving his ambition of serving in the Royal Navy after completing the first stage of his training at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall.

Trainee Air Engineering Technician Evan Neale arrived at the Royal Navy training base in November 2013. During a 10-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.

The former pupil of Ysgol Greenhill School previously worked as an instructor for a high ropes adventure course. He said: "I joined the Royal Navy for the adventurous lifestyle and first class training. The possibility of travelling all over the world was also a big draw. The training was challenging and character building. This is just the start of a potentially great career and a new life in the Navy for me."

Evan is a keen sportsman and after completing a marathon in the summer he entered the Ironman Wales competition, which takes place in September this year. He plans to train for the event during the next stage of his training, which will take place at HMS Sultan in Hampshire. There he will learn how to carry out scheduled maintenance as well as pre- and post-flight servicing and inspections for the Fleet Air Arm's helicopters.

The Royal Navy's Initial Naval Training course is underpinned by nine core maritime skills that are the foundations of naval life and underpin operational effectiveness. Recruits are taught the basics of Naval discipline and customs. They learn about navigation and are given the chance to take the helm of their own medium-sized inflatable boat during a waterborne orienteering exercise. With Royal Navy personnel playing a vital role in Afghanistan and other land-based operations, recruits undergo training in basic combat skills which includes survival in the field. Fitness is a key component of the training and is delivered using a disciplined method of military fitness which focuses on developing co-ordination and individual physical strength and endurance. As the course progresses, the recruits take part in three extended exercises to test their skills and understanding of the principles they have been taught.

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at http://www.royalnavy.mod.uk">www.royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment Line on 08456 07 55 55.