Although she has no naval background, Marion Budgett said this would not stop her from forging ahead with new plans.

Since taking over as director she has already hosted a high-profile visit by the prince which has seen him spearhead the campaign to get HMS Alliance – the museum's centrepiece attraction – back to its best.

And there will be more to come from the former director of Beaulieu motor museum, who replaced ex-submariner Commander Jeff Tall.

Mrs Budgett said: 'Having Prince William here was a massive boost and an exciting start.

'Now that I have had time to look at what we have I can see three objectives that I will be disappointed if we don't achieve.

'The major aim is to conserve and preserve HMS Alliance, to build a new entrance to the museum and in doing so complete the £3m revamp of the whole complex.

'I want to show the bravery of the submarine service and the challenges the men serving face, but that has to be balanced with a welcome for young people who may end up joining themselves.'

As reported in The News, Prince William has become Patron of the HMS Alliance Conservation Appeal.

Alliance, the country's only surviving Second World War sub, is supported on a couple of concrete pillars over the sea.

But plans are in place to spruce up the sub and install a new viewing platform so people can see the vessel close up.

As long as the Heritage Lottery Fund is happy with the designs, the museum will apply for planning permission from Gosport Borough Council and hopes to complete the project by 2011.

Mrs Budgett added: 'I may not have served in submarines but understand the unique place they and those who served in them for the last century have in the history of the Royal Navy and the country.

'I was the Deputy Keeper of the Royal Air Force Museum at Hendon and so I know the service world well.'

Places to Visit