A DARLINGTON man is celebrating after graduating as a weapon engineer for the Royal Navy.

Engineering technician Nicholas Stranks, 22, graduated from HMS Collingwood in Hampshire after completing his Phase 2 training with Victory Squadron.

He joined the Royal Navy in February this year to travel the world and make the most of the career opportunities.

Mr Stranks, who is a keen footballer, said: “The highlight of my career was completing my Phase 1 training.

“I am looking forward to joining my first ship and continuing with my training.”

Mr Stranks joined the Maritime Warfare School at HMS Collingwood after completing his basic training at HMS Raleigh.

There he undertook the Weapons Engineering Training Course, learning about the Royal Navy’s weapon systems, safety procedures, electrical and electronic repair techniques and the basics of hydraulics and pneumatics.

He also received practical training in a range of essential tools and techniques.

HMS Collingwood is the home of the Maritime Warfare School which provides first class training to all officers and ratings of the Royal Navy in their professional specialisations.

These include weapon engineering, communications, and warfare and the training is flexible in order to keep pace with the challenging operational needs.