A NAVAL recruit has won an award for keeping his and his classmates' initial training ship-shape.

Anthony Lundrigan was selected as a class leader during his nine-week training course with the Royal Navy, and his duties included taking charge of the group in the absence of their instructor.

Under his leadership, the class was awarded the Ganges Trophy, having collectively achieved the best marks during training.

The 24-year-old trainee engineering technician, from Hartlepool, collected the trophy on behalf of the class during his passing-out parade.

Mr Lundrigan, a former pupil of Dyke House School, said: "I joined the Royal Navy to learn a trade, the chance to travel and for a career with good prospects.

"Training has been enjoyable, although difficult at times. I'm now hoping to progress further, and my aim is to study for an engineering degree during my time in the service."

With the first phase of his training complete, the former call centre worker is now heading for HMS Sultan in Hampshire. Once fully qualified as an engineering technician, specialising in mechanical engineering, he will be a member of a team responsible for keeping the fleet in peak condition.