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In September 1955 Keith left Westbourne to read Naval
Architecture at Kings College, Newcastle upon Tyne. At that time it was one of
the colleges of Durham University. Today, Newcastle is an independent
university.
During vacations he returned to Westbourne and worked in the
Drawing Office at Portsmouth Royal Dockyard. Not only to earn money for his
digs and food etc., but to complete his 5-year apprenticeship as a
shipwright.
After graduating with an honours degree he studied at
Imperial College, London in Production Engineering. At the age of 25 his career
in this field was cut short on receiving a letter to do his deferred National
Service, even though it would be in its last year. Deferment was a usual
practice for those on an apprenticeship or degree studies.
With
qualifications in shipbuilding he argued that it was not appropriate for 2-year
army service. Instead he was offered a 3-year commission in the Royal Navy.
That is another story that ended nearly 30 years later.
Historical note:
In 1949 National Service was introduced when the the number of volunteers for
the Armed Forces was less than required to meet the country's post-war
commitments. Every able-bodied man between 18 and 26 years was required to
serve 18 months. This was extended to 2 years in 1950 when the Korean war
started. The requirement was abolished in 1960. |