Two Royal Navy sailors from Watford, Stephen Jennings and Andrew Foy, are helping the international effort to search the waters of the Mediterranean for migrants from North Africa.

Andy is one of a small team of aviation specialists on board Britain's flagship HMS Bulwark, which is currently on humanitarian operations in the Med.

As a Leading Airman (Survival Equipment) it is his role to maintain all the aircrew and passenger flying equipment on HMS Bulwark to ensure that it is fit for purpose and is constantly available should there be a need for it.

Stephen is also an aviation specialist, but as a Naval Airman, he is the flight control centre’s clerical assistant. He has to ensure all air movements and operations are recorded so procedures are correctly followed.

HMS Bulwark, which only weeks ago was at the heart of Britain's involvement in centenary commemorations of the Gallipoli landings in Turkey, is leading the UK's response to the plight of people trying to leave Africa in overcrowded and unsafe boats.

Bulwark carried out her first rescue of migrants on May 7 - more than 100 people were picked up from a sinking makeshift dinghy about 40 miles off the coast of Libya - and successfully transferred to an Italian Coastguard cutter to be taken to land.

However, the ship’s vehicle deck, which normally holds tanks, armoured vehicles, Land Rovers and trucks, has been converted into a reception area where clean, dry clothes, medical treatment and food are available should it fall to HMS Bulwark to deliver the rescued migrants to land.

Bulwark will act as a "floating airport" in the Med, allowing Merlin helicopters which have flown out from RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall, to land, refuel and resume their search missions.

Andy, a former student at Salvatorian College in Harrow, said: "I’m proud to make a difference as this is something we always train for, to help others. No one wants to see others in distress at sea, therefore whatever we can do to help is a good thing."

While 24-year-old Stephen, who attended St Joan of Arc School, added: "It’s a great feeling to know what I’m doing is worthwhile as I can see the benefits that the helicopters bring to this operation and the success they are having in saving lives."