A FORMER Colchester student is on the crest of a wave after completing his Royal Naval officer training.

Midshipman Luke Orrin, 19, entered the Royal Navy on January 9 and completed his initial training at Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, Devon.

“Having just finished A-levels, I was at a decision point whether to go to university or join the Royal Navy,” said the teenager.

“I had always wanted to have a job that meant something important, where I could travel and have constant variety.

Gazette: On the crest of a wave - Midshipman Luke OrrinOn the crest of a wave - Midshipman Luke Orrin (Image: Royal Navy)

“The Royal Navy had all these opportunities straight away in my career and so was a great route to go down.”

The Midshipman said “sideways rain and below zero temperatures” during his leadership training on Dartmoor was the toughest aspect.

He added: “On completion, it was the first big assessment passed and made great stories, so must be a highlight.”

He now goes on to join HMS Protector, the Royal Navy’s ice patrol ship, where his training will continue.