A FORMER Bolton man has achieved petty officer rank in the Royal Navy and gained his engineering foundation degree.

Christopher Welsby, pictured, who was born in Little Lever, has been awarded the best student award after getting six As with distinction.

The 36-year-old has passed his aeronautical degree in engineering and is now considering further study.

The former St Matthews and Canon Slade pupil joined the navy at 18, has been to all major war zones and works at Yeovilton airbase.

He now lives in Somerset with his wife, Christine.