Carrier work starts in Portsmouth

Shaun Collins cuts the first steel on a new aircraft carrier Credit: BAE Systems

Work has begun in Portsmouth on a key section of a new aircraft carrier.

The first steel for a key section of HMS Prince of Wales, the second Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carrier, was cut yesterday.

The section will contain accommodation, recreational facilities, a laundry and bakery.

The block will be placed above Lower Block 02, which is also currently under construction in Portsmouth.

The symbolic first steel cut is traditionally performed by senior members of the Royal Navy.

However, twenty-one year old fabricator Shaun Collins was given the honour after receiving a Personal Achievement Award at the BAE Systems UK Apprentice Awards.