A Jersey woman has become the first female admiral in the Royal Navy.

Rear Admiral Jude Terry will be responsible for more than 40,000 regular and reservist sailors and Royal Marines, as well as the Royal Fleet Auxiliary which operates the Navy's support ships, civil servants and contractors.

Announcing her appointment, the Royal Navy says while there are currently no restrictions on women serving in any position or branch, 'a century-old glass ceiling has been shattered'.

The 48-year-old, who previously studied at Jersey College for Girls, says 'someone has to be the first' and she certainly won't be the last.

"The world has changed in terms of what people want from life and careers, whatever their gender, and the Navy needs to work to modernise our organisation to support this change – a diverse and inclusive workforce is a better place for all but is also proven to deliver better outcomes."

Admiral Terry joined the Royal Navy as a graduate in 1997 and originally only planned on serving for eight years. She explained why her plans changed:

"If you enjoy your job, you keep on doing it. I have been really lucky to have worked with some amazing people throughout my career and been supported by my family and friends and no two days are ever the same which is what I love about my job."

The Royal Navy's First Sea Lord Admiral, Sir Ben Key, says Admiral Terry is 'a great example' for all women serving today, acting as 'a role model for all who serve'.