YOUNGSTERS from a high school in Walkden had a taste of life on the ocean waves when they stepped aboard the Royal Navy's mine hunter HMS Sandown.

Pupils from St George's High School were given a guided tour around the ship when it docked at Salford Quays. They were treated to a trip around the engine room, operations room and the bridge.

Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel made themselves available so that students could quiz them about their various roles.

The more adventurous students also put their nerves to the test on a climbing wall challenge set up on the quayside.

Royal Navy Regional Recruiting Officer for the North-west Lieutenant Commander Richard Cowley said: "Careers in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines are extremely varied, from engineers, cooks and musicians, to mechanics, drivers and technicians, so there is a great deal to choose from.

The ship is responsible for keeping ports and coastal shipping lanes free from the threat of mines. It is equipped with state of the art sonar equipment that can trace mines on the seabed or in mid water.