Army preparation (From Barry And District News)

Army preparation

BARRY youngsters will be a step ahead of their counterparts if they plan to join the armed forces.

It is all down to a unique scheme that has been set up to prepare them for training in the army, navy and Royal Marines.

Compared with a 47% drop out rate for all new recruits across the UK, 82% of graduates from the Cardiff-based Military Preparation Course go on to complete their basic training in the armed forces.

Four Barry locals completed the course this summer and they are all now planning on joining the armed forces in some capacity.

Barry-born Norman Rowlands of Llantwit Major won an award at the end of the course for the fastest cross country running time out of the 28 teenagers who took part.

"The course was really good," he said.

"I was really fit by the end of it and we went on lots of outings.

"We all had a really enjoyable and worthwhile time."

The 17-year-old is now waiting for his second interview in the selection process for the Royal Regiment of Wales.

"I wanted to join the army before, but I'm much fitter now and more mentally prepared." Managing Director of the centre Huw Lewis, agrees that the youngsters are far more able to cope with the selection stages of joining the armed fiorces after they have completed the course.

"They are fitter, more dsiciplined and much more confident," he said.

"They understand the committment the armed forces are looking for and it is not so much of a culture shock when they start training."

The Military Preparation Course in Cardiff is the only one of its kind for the royal Navy and Royal Marines and one of only a handful catering for the army.

For those interested in taking part in a Prepartion Course, the next takes place in January. For further details contact Huw Lewis on 02920 488100.