IT'S plain sailing for former Bury Council worker Rachel Hayes as she carves out a career in the Royal Navy.

The 23-year-old has graduated as a warfare specialist from HMS Collingwood, Fareham, Hampshire, after she completed her phase two training with Victory Squadron.

Able Rate (warfare specialist) Rachel joined the Royal Navy in January, pursuing a career that would push her to reach her full potential, coupled with the chance to travel the world.

Rachel, whose parents Janet and Robert live in the town, said: "This year has been the most enjoyable year of my life. I’ve been pushing myself and meeting new friends while learning life changing specialist skills.

"I now look forward to joining my first ship while exploring the world. I can’t wait to pursue my new found love of boxing in the Royal Navy.”

Rachel’s service career choice sees her following in the footsteps of her grandfather, who served in the Army.

At HMS Collingwood, Rachel undertook the warfare specialist training course to learn how to set up and operate the Royal Navy’s systems that provide information to ships on air and surface activities.

As a warfare specialist on board, she will be part of the team detecting threats to the ship, identifying targets and making crucial tactical decisions. The work involves some of the world’s most advanced electronic systems.

After successfully completing this course, Rachel will now be joining her first ship HMS Ocean.

HMS Collingwood is the home of the Maritime Warfare School which contributes to the operational capability of the fleet by providing first-class training to all officers and ratings of the Royal Navy in their professional specialisations.

* For details of career opportunities within the Royal Navy: visit www.royalnavy.mod.uk or call the recruitment line on 08456 075555.