A submarine electrician has been named as next in line to the throne of a remote island.
Aaron Sanderson, 33, is set to become the monarch of Piel after a bid to become its pub landlord.
The two roles traditionally go hand in hand.
Aarron, a team leader at BAE Systems submarines, in Barrow, Cumbria, grew up in the town and often visited the island just half a mile off the coast.
He was one of more than 190 people who bid for the 10-year lease on the Ship Inn and plans to move to the island with partner Anita Palfi.
He said: “I have very happy memories of visiting Piel.
“The prospect of me applying was mentioned and from that point I couldn’t get it out of my head. I am in a secure and well-paid role but I am willing to give that up for the chance to bring the glory days back to the Ship Inn.”
The new landlord will be welcomed with a coronation ceremony in which he will sit in an ancient chair, wearing a helmet and holding a sword, while alcohol is poured over him.
Barrow Borough Council leader Ann Thomson said: “Aaron has a great understanding of Piel, the Ship Inn and the traditions of the island. We will follow due process to confirm our partnership.”
The 50-acre island is also home to the ruins of 14th century Piel Castle. The coronation ceremony is said to celebrate the landing in 1487 of pretender to the throne of England, Lambert Simnel.
His rebellion was crushed and he became a servant in the royal household.
However, the tradition continued and became part of island history with recorded landlords of the Ship Inn dating back to 1746.
