Graduate to make Royal Navy history - graduate jobs

A Hertfordshire university graduate is set to make Royal Navy history next year, it has emerged.

Lieutenant Commander Sarah West will become the first female commander of a frontline warship in the service's 500-year history.

The 39-year-old, who joined the Britannia Royal Naval College in September 1995 after studying maths at the University of Hertfordshire, will take control of HMS Portland in April 2012.

Lt Cdr West, from Lincolnshire, will take over the Type 23 frigate after demonstrating "leadership, confidence, moral courage, sound judgment and excellent people skills".

A Royal Navy spokesman said: "We can confirm the appointment of Lt Cdr Sarah West, who will be Commander West from January as CO of HMS Portland. She will take over command in April 2012.

"The Royal Navy is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity for all its personnel to enjoy challenging, fulfilling and rewarding careers."

Copyright Press Association 2011