A 25-year-old naval recruit from Weymouth celebrated his formal commissioning as a Royal Navy Officer at Britannia Royal Naval College.

Midshipman Ben White, who follows in the footsteps of his father, was one of the latest group of Officer Cadets who took part in the passing-out parade, watched by their families, friends and guests.

Vice Admiral Duncan Potts, director general joint force development and defence academy, was the VIP inspecting officer.

In order to earn his place on the parade ground, Ben completed an intensive 30-week training course, which was split into two 15-week phases.

Ben was assigned to the amphibious assault ship HMS Albion operating in UK waters.

He said: “The biggest highlight of training has been being part of Sutherland Division.

“We have grown together as a team and have won almost all of the various competitions and feats throughout training. This has been down to our hard work.

“Our team ethos has got me through training, but has also been one of the most enjoyable aspects.

“Overall training has been one of the biggest, but most satisfying, challenges of my life. 

“Marching up the famous BRNC steps at the end of the parade was the proudest moment of my life.”

Explaining his reasons for joining the Royal Navy, Ben said:

“Having grown up watching my father’s career, I knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps.

“I joined the Royal Navy as it offered a fantastic opportunity to challenge myself, physically and mentally, while also giving me the ability to travel.”

Ben’s father, Commander Steve White joined the Royal Navy as a boy sailor in 1983. 

He later transferred to the Office Corps and passed out of the BRNC in 1998.

He said: “Ben today has marched up the steps of BRNC to join an elite club; he has officially joined HIS Royal Navy at an extremely exciting time, with new capabilities and a new political environment for him to learn.

“As a Royal Naval Officer I am delighted the Royal Navy is in safe hands; but as a father I couldn’t be more proud of his achievements.”

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment line on 08456 075555.