A SEAMAN diver from Stourbridge has completed specialist clearance training at the Royal Navy’s Defence Diving School (DDS) in Portsmouth.

Mitchell Bowen, aged 25, received his certificate and diving log at a recent awards ceremony from guest of honour Commander Simon Pressdee, responsible for all diving and EOD capability in the Navy.

Originally from Stourbridge where his family live, Mitchell joined the Navy for the challenge of passing the diving course, to learn new skills and travel the world.

On completing his diving course he said: “I’ve learnt and achieve a lot on the course. I’m now looking forward to getting hands on and continuing to learn.”

Mitchell, whose Grandad fought in the Korean War, cites passing his diving course and achieving a 60 metre dive as the highlights of his career so far.

During the graduation event, the newly qualified divers put on a ‘real life’ display for their visiting families and friends.

Andrew Woollven, commanding officer of the Navy’s diving school, said to the divers: “Today is the culmination of 24 weeks of hard training which has tested you and shown your determination, integrity, versatility and endurance skills.

“The people you graduate with today will be your friends throughout your journey and career in the RN.”