A Royal Navy mine clearance diver from West Molesey has been named as sailor of the month.

Tom “Tommy” Davies, 24, was nominated by crewmates on the HMS Quorn for his professional attitude, selflessness and strong team spirit.

Living on board for eight months at a time, keeping morale high is important to sailor and with his quick wit and cheerful character, able seaman Davies is said to always be able to raise the spirits of everyone on board.

Prior to joining the Royal Navy in November 2010, Mr Davies worked as a manager of a supermarket in West Molesey, but has since endured a varied and challenging lifestyle.

Mr Davies, who first served on HMS Raleigh, has dived into the waters of the UK, Mediterranean and the Gulf, ready at a moment’s notice to locate and neutralise enemy mines.

Since joining the Royal Navy, Mr Davies has also served in the Royal Navy Minehunters HMS Brocklesby and HMS Quorn, where he is currently deployed to the Gulf.

Speaking on his commendation, Mr Davies said: “I just do my job, but it’s nice to get recognised for it every once in a while.”

Lieutenant James Oxley, HMS Quorn’s executive officer, said “Diver Davies is a credit to the diving branch and the Royal Navy; he embodies the highest standards for all those across the service to follow.”