A CHEF with the Royal Marines has swapped life on the high seas for dry land to give North-East catering students a taste of life in a Royal Navy kitchen.

Sergeant John Beaton met young people from Middlesbrough College yesterday to show off the culinary skills he picked up in the armed forces.

The 32-year-old underwent 32 weeks of the most intensive of all infantry training to become a Royal Marine Commando, before qualifying to become a chef and joining the Royal Marine Chef Display Team.

His naval career has enabled him to travel the world and set up field kitchens, where he had to serve everything from haute cuisine to lunch on the run.

Sgt Beaton said: "Anyone considering a career in catering should take a look at what the military has to offer such as excellent training, a good salary and the chance to see the world."

Middlesbrough College principal John Richardson said the visit gave students an excellent insight into a rewarding career.

He said: "All of the catering and hospitality students enjoy visits and discussions from a number of employers, giving them an insight into the many career options that can be found within this industry.

"Sgt Beaton has enhanced and broadened the catering and hospitality students' scope for their future."