A ROYAL Navy Reservist from Stockton Heath will play a vital role in a celebration of the region's connection to the service.

Royal Naval Reservist Lieutenant Commander Christine Bradford, aged 52, will be joining another 40 Royal Navy and Royal Marine Reservists from HMS Eaglet and RMR Mersey.

The climax to the event takes place on July 1 and 2 when the amphibious warship HMS Albion, affiliated to Chester, takes part in the 'All Aboard' maritime festival in Liverpool.

"It's a fantastic opportunity to raise the profile of the Royal Navy and its Reservists and have some fun in the process," said Commander Bradford.

"The Royal Navy has always enjoyed a special bond with the people of the north west and I feel privileged to be a part of that."