Following his initial training, he served as Supply Officer in the rank of Lieutenant (S) RNVR in HMS Vernon.

He then worked at the Ministry of Transport before leaving to concentrate on writing, lecturing and running the family business.

They exited the mine with their injuries and were rescued by a Westland Sea King helicopter from C Flight of No.

22 Squadron RAF Air Sea Rescue in Anglesey and taken to Bangor hospital for treatment.

The author subsequently appeared on "Episode 2" of the BBC Television programme 'Helicopter Rescue' broadcast on 22 February 2012.