A WARRINGTON sailor has taken part in a historic Royal Navy celebration in the heart of London to mark 100 years of Naval Aviation, known as Fly Navy 100.

Able Rate David Parr, a former pupil of Penketh High School, is a member of the logisitics branch on board HMS Illustrious – the Royal Navy’s fleet flagship and strike carrier for ground attack Harriers and Merlin helicopters.

David, who works in catering services delivery, is responsible for stores entering the officers’ mess and bar as well as helping in the organisation of accommodation onboard the aircraft carrier ship which can mean finding beds for more than 1,000 crew.

He said: “It is a different way of life. Getting to meet large amounts of people is what interests me.

“We get to attend many different events in different places but this one will be very special to all of us, as it is celebrating the tradition which lies at the core of all that we do – Royal Navy aviation was and is a world leader.

“Being part of an aircraft carrier crew is like being part of a small village; there’s a real community feel.”

Illustrious was in London to officially launch the year long celebrations. During her time in the city she was the centre point for a ceremonial fly past and played host to royalty.

HMS Illustrious has participated in most major UK and NATO campaigns over the last 15 years including the First Gulf War, the Sierra Leone evacuations and the Afghanistan war in 2001.