THE latest batch of young officers to pass out from Darmouth's naval college have been having a bit of a ball.

As well as taking part in the ceremonial parade to mark the end of their training the newly qualified naval officers were also able to enjoy the a college ball held on the next day to mark the 150th anniversary of the Royal Navy on the Dart.

The salute for last week's parade at the Britannia Royal Naval College was taken by the commander of the Royal Navy of Oman, Read Admiral Abdullah bin Khamis bin Abdullah Al-Raisi.

He inspected 78 young officers on parade who had completed their Royal Navy initial training – including 16 officers from overseas navies including the Royal Navy of Oman.

Cpt Jerry Kyd, the Commanding Officer of BRNC, said: 'Cadets from the Royal Navy of Oman have been coming to BRNC for training for around 20 years to the mutual benefit of both countries.

'We were very pleased that Rear Admiral Al-Raisi was able to join us as the guest of honour.

'During his time here he was able to meet 15 other officer cadets from his Navy who are currently undergoing training with us.'

Over 100 other service personnel also took part in the parade, including cadets at varying stages of their training and the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Plymouth, who provided musical accompaniment.

The officer cadets completing training were able to celebrate their success further at the Britannia 150 celebratory ball last Friday, organised to commemorate the 150th anniversary of naval officer training on the Dart.

More than 500 guests attended the ball, which culminated in a spectacular firework display from the roof of the college, paid for by the Britannia Association.

The celebrations included dodgem cars on the parade ground, a Beatle tribute act and music from the Band of the Royal Marines while a high power projector lit up the façade of the main college building with images from its history.