The Minister for Defence Veterans, Reserves and Personnel was given a first-hand insight into naval training when he met recruits at HMS Raleigh.

Mark Lancaster MP paid an overnight visit to the Royal Navy training base as part of a wider visit to Royal Navy and Royal Marine establishments in the South West.

He met a group of junior officers and also sat down with a class of trainees in the sixth week of their 10=week initial naval training course.

The Minister explained his role and spoke of his background as a former soldier and current member of the Territorial Army, in which he serves in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

He asked the trainees about their training and their reasons for joining the Service. Mr Lancaster also took questions.

The Minister also met members of Crean Division, HMS Raleigh’s rehabilitation division, which provides care and a package of training to help recruits who have suffered an injury or illness return to full fitness.