AS SECRETS of King Henry VIII's warship, the Mary Rose, are revealed, a fundamental part of its discovery has come to light, writes Amelia Chubb.

For 47 years Alexander McKee has been known as the spearhead of the rediscovery of the Mary Rose, however it was the equipment operated by George Cooke that pinpointed the location of the vessel.

The 92-year-old, who now lives in Launceston, told the 'Post' "if I hadn't been with him, they never would have found it", but before now his version of events have not been made public.

Following his years in the Royal Air Force, George began his diving career in 1955. Starting as a diving officer of the Reading Sub Aqua Branch, he later became a first class diver for the British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC), the highest and most challenging diving grade which can be achieved. According to the BSAC, only 932 people have qualified as first class divers.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the 'Post'.