A FORMER Tavistock College pupil recently completed the first phase of his officer training at Dartmouth following a hectic two months at sea aboard HMS Ocean.

Midshipman Alex Coleman (pictured right), who now lives in Plymouth, is well on the way to fulfilling his dream of becoming a warfare officer in the Royal Navy.

The 20 year-old former sea cadet joined the navy last year, undertaking academic and leadership training at Dartmouth?s Britannia Royal Naval College before heading out to sea in the region?s most famous amphibious assault ship.

During the eight weeks aboard HMS Ocean, Alex saw all aspects of life on a fully operational warship and experienced the many different departments that operate while at sea.

Alex?s parents, Peter and Suraya Coleman, travelled to Dartmouth to witness their son?s passing out parade.

Midshipman Coleman is now undertaking further fleet training on board the Type 23 frigate HMS Portland.