A BURNLEY man is helping to build the largest ship the Royal Navy has ever operated.

Daniel Crawshaw, 30, from Rose Grove, is responsible for the logistics behind building Britain’s newest aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales.

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HMS Queen Elizabeth will stand as tall as Nelson’s Column and have the capacity to carry 36 of the world’s most advanced fighter jets, the F-35 Lightning II.

The F-35s are partly being built at BAE System’s Samlesbury base which provides 11,000 jobs to people in Lancashire.

The former Burnley College student said: “Being a part of the crew maintaining and utilising the HMS Queen Elizabeth, the largest ever British Naval vessel, is a huge privilege and I’m looking forward to starting my work with her.”

Able Seaman First Class Crawshaw will ensure that the kit and equipment needed to build the ships is of the required standard.

His career with the Royal Navy began in 2006 after finishing his public services national certificate course.

The 30-year-old said: “The tutors at Burnley College Sixth Form Centre really helped me to cement my goals and my direction and gave me the opportunity to make my way into the ranks of the Royal Navy.

“My time with the Royal Navy has been truly incredible and I’ve achieved so much with them.

“The operations I’ve been a part of have encouraged me to push even harder to reach my dreams.

“I can’t wait to get back out on the seas.”

HMS Queen Elizabeth will have nine-decked hulls and once complete, will be Britain’s largest ever aircraft carrier, standing more than 70 meters tall.

During construction, Mr Crawshaw has returned home to volunteer at the Burnley and Rossendale Sea Cadets, until the launch of HMS Queen Elizabeth when he will return to sea.

Principal of Burnley College Hugh Bramwell said: “Hearing success stories like Daniel’s is the best part of being the principal.

“His hard work and dedication to his goals paired with the strong support and guidance from his tutors have seen him thrive in the career of his dreams.

“That he is continuing to give back to his local community in Burnley within the Sea Cadets is the icing on the cake.

“We’re all exceptionally proud of his achievements and wish him all the best with the launching of HMS Queen Elizabeth and what lies ahead.”