A NAVY ace from Nelson has been given a Queen's commendation for his 'exemplary work' aboard the country's longest nuclear submarine deployment - fighting terrorists and drug runners.

Lieutenant commander John Ryan, 48, was left shocked after receiving the honour, for his service aboard HMS Trenchant, from Vice Admiral Sir Philip Jones, Fleet Commander.

The father-of-two and former Walton High student is the head of marine engineering for the Trafalgar class vessel, which had been undertaking anti-terrorism and drugbusting operations, as part of a record 335-day mission which took them to Bahrain, Jordan, Crete and Gibraltar.

Only seven of the crew, including John, were on board for the whole stint - now the East Lancashire veteran is looking forward to the pleasures of dry land and being stationed at a naval base.

He said: "My aspiration is to get out and play golf again if time allows, but in the meantime it’s good to be able to cycle to work again to keep fit."

He was responsible for the submarine's nuclear reactor and all the associated propulsion and domestic systems and is now undertaking a shore-based management role at Devonport naval base in Plymouth.

Reacting to his commendation John, who is married to Louise, said: "This award was completely unexpected as I always felt I was just doing my job to the best of my ability.

"Working on a nuclear submarine away from the UK for 11 months can present a number of complex challenges but the recognition of what the marine engineering department and HMS Trenchant achieved while I was head of the department is clearly something I will always be extremely pleased to be associated with. The fact I have been singled out for an award is extremely humbling."

He was presented with his commendation during a special ceremony at Portsmouth.

Sir Philip Jones said: "I never cease to be amazed at the remarkable contribution that the men and women receiving these awards have made to the naval service.

"But I also recognise that the fantastic achievements of our men and women are underpinned in no small way by the support of their friends and families."