A 23-year-old from Helston has celebrated his transformation from a civilian into a Royal Navy sailor by proposing to his long-term girlfriend.

Trainee Air Engineering Technician Ben Lenderyou, a former Falmouth School pupil, joined the Royal Navy in March this year and has now completed ten weeks of intensive training at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall. After the passing-out-parade, which marks the formal completion of the course, Ben proposed to his 22-year-old girlfriend Holly Brittain and fortunately, she said yes.

Ben and Holly have a daughter, Emelia, who celebrated her first birthday while Ben was undergoing training. In keeping with tradition Ben called Holly’s parents to seek their permission to marry their daughter before his proposal.

The former pupil of Falmouth School said: “Holly and I have been together for five years and with starting a new career I thought it was a good time to start a new life with my family as well. I thought she would say yes as she has been dropping enough hints.”

Holly, who attended Helston School said: “I was really shocked and overwhelmed. Ben took me completely by surprise. I’m really happy that he’s achieved his ambition to join the Royal Navy and I am totally behind him in his choice of career.”

From day one of his training Ben has been put through his paces at HMS Raleigh, undertaking a series of challenges in order to reach the essential standards required by every member of the Naval Service.

He has been engaged in team work exercises that mimic as much as possible the operations that the Royal Navy is engaged in all over the globe.

As well as the basics such as marching and fitness sessions, Ben has also learned how to handle an SA80 assault rifle, seamanship techniques and how to tackle floods and fires at sea. The course culminates in the passing-out-parade attended by families and friends.

With the first phase of his training complete Ben will transfer to HMS Sultan in Hampshire. There he will learn how to carry out scheduled maintenance as well as pre- and post-flight servicing and inspections for the Fleet Air Arm's helicopters.

The Royal Navy's Initial Naval Training course is underpinned by the nine Core Maritime Skills that are the foundations of naval life and underpin operational effectiveness.

Recruits are taught the basics of Naval discipline and customs, navigation and take the helm of their own medium sized inflatable boat during a waterborne orienteering exercise.

Recruits also undergo basic combat skills training, which includes survival in the field. Fitness is a key component of the training and is delivered using a disciplined method of military fitness which focuses on developing co-ordination and individual physical strength and endurance.

As the course progresses the recruits take part in three extended exercises to test their skills and understanding of the principles they have been taught.

Details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy are available online at www.royalnavy.mod.uk or by calling the Recruitment Line on 08456 07 55 55.