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'Sopwith Camel on a lghter, towing at 32 knots and attempting to take-off.'

Never before seen photos which provide a fascinating glimpse into the experimental early days of naval aviation have come to light after 100 years.

The photo album, which dates from 1918 and was compiled by Wing Commander Ernest Chambers of the Royal Navy, includes images of pioneering flying boats and submarines which were widely used for the first time during World War One.

One image shows a Sopwith Camel being towed on a lighter to achieve take-off speed, while another captures the dramatic moment a British submarine suffers a direct hit.

There is also the impressive sight, which would probably shock the health and safety brigade, of workers erecting a Curtis triplane using unsupported ladders to scale its giant frame