Army puts youngsters through their paces

Youngsters scale the grueling Krypton Factor assault course

Rochdale youths considering a career in the Army got to experience life in the barracks first hand.

A group of 10 youngsters were put through their paces at the Holcombe Moor Army Training Facility to test their fitness levels, endurance, problem-solving skills and survival instincts.

The day organised by Rochdale Borough Council’s Targeted Youth Support Team in partnership with the Army Careers Office in Rochdale proved to be a popular expedition with the young people.

Army officers educated the young ‘privates’ in the history of the army and the different platoons before the latest cadets had to conquer the notorious assault course that featured in the TV show The Krypton Factor.

Richard Rhodes, Targeted Youth Support Key Worker at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “It was a fantastic day, enjoyed by all. The experience opened the young people’s eyes into the reality of army training and just how hard and gruelling it can be when you’re physically and mentally pushed to your limits. But all the young people found the day really rewarding and completing the assault course gave them an enormous sense of pride.”

Councillor Teresa Fitzsimons, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families added: “We’re committed to making sure young people in our borough are offered as much career advice and support they need to equip them to make important informed decisions when the time comes to seek employment. I hope this day’s experience has helped to give the youngsters an insight into the career they’re interested in pursuing”.