A MIDDLESBROUGH sailor has celebrated his formal commissioning as a Royal Navy Officer on parade at Britannia Royal Naval College (BRNC).

Midshipman Michael Kilgallon was one of about 130 officer cadets who took part in the parade, watched by their families, friends and distinguished guests, including the Second Sea Lord, Vice Admiral David Steel, who was the VIP inspecting officer.

To earn his place on the parade ground, the 26-year-old completed an intensive 30 week training course, including spending part of his training assigned to the helicopter carrier HMS Ocean.

He said: “I am delighted to have passed out of a world class institution, and although the training was challenging, it was extremely enjoyable and rewarding over all. I’ve really enjoyed the physical aspect of military training and my time spent in the field.”

A former pupil of Newlands School, he graduated from the University of Manchester in 2009 with a degree in politics and international relations. He went on to Newcastle University where he achieved a Masters in European Union studies in 2011.

Prior to embarking on his Naval career Michael was employed as a buyer working on the Astute Class submarine project in Barrow-in-Furness.

With the first phase of his training complete Michael will transfer to HMS Raleigh in Cornwall to begin his specialist course to qualify as a Logistics Officer.