Taunton marines helping Irma recovery effort

Royal Marines from the 40 Commando unit in Taunton are in the Caribbean helping communities devastated by Hurricane Irma.

Part of the battalion is in Tortola where they are working with police to provide emergency aid.

The Royal Navy says the troops are already making a difference in the wake of the hurricane.

The Royal Navy says the Taunton-based marines were expecting to head to the Mediterranean this week on exercises, but as the lead commando group were instead activated on Thursday.

They flew on a Royal Air Force transporter and are now in Tortola.

Further troops from 40 Commando unit are making their way from Gibraltar on board Plymouth-based warship HMS Ocean.

They'll assist with long term recovery work.

HMS Ocean is also carrying emergency supplies and equipment.

The ship has around 200 pallets of UK Aid and 60 pallets of Emergency Relief Stores (ERS).

These contain power tools to help rebuild communities, emergency shelters for those left homeless as well as items such as water purification kits and nappies.

It will take around two weeks to reach the islands.

Commanding Officer of HMS Ocean Captain Robert Pedro says his crew is "extremely motivated".

Several other vessels from the South West are already in the Caribbean delivering aid.

RFA Mounts Bay which is affiliated to Falmouth has been providing food, water and medical supplies to Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands.

The Royal Navy says the ship has been busy providing support since it arrived.

British police officers have also been deployed in the region to help maintain order.

The group includes one officer each from Avon and Somerset, Gloucestershire and Devon and Cornwall police forces.