EXETER student Jasmine Winyard swapped her university studies to tackle floods and fires at HMS Raleigh in Cornwall.

The 22-year-old is a member of the Birmingham University Royal Navy Unit and was given a taste of naval training during a day at the establishment.

She faced the challenge of saving a warship holed by enemy attack in the Royal Navy's sinking ship simulator, known as 'Havoc'. As water flooded in the students fought to stem the breaches in the hull, using wooden wedges and hammers. The group also took part in a firefighting training session when they were shown how to use the different types of fire extinguishers and were able to gain some practical experience of putting out fires.

Jasmine is currently in her third year at Birmingham University studying for a degree in biological sciences.

She joined the URNU in October, 2008 and holds the honorary rank of midshipman.

The former Clyst Vale Community College pupil said: "The training was great fun and a real eye-opener, and I really enjoyed Havoc."