A WYKE REGIS soldier is first in line for a promotion after being put through his passes on an intensive infantry and leadership course.

Airborne Gunner Ben Larsen, 24, was named the best potential non-commissioned officer after a completing a month-long course along with the 28 other soldiers of the 7th Parachute Royal Horse Artillery.

The troops headed to the rugged terrain of Sennybridge, South Wales, for series of theory and practical skill to prove the are ready to take the first steps on the Army's promotional ladder from Gunner to Lance Lance Bombardier.

Gnr Larsen, who has served for with the 7 Para RHA for two years, said: "I’m really chuffed to be highlighted as one of the best leaders on the course.

"It was a challenging month, and we’ve learnt and done things that are outside our usual business. The most valuable thing I’ve learnt is the importance of putting up emotional boundaries as a leader, so you can work with friends but still be in charge."

The former All Saints School took to the classroom to learn vital command and leadership skills before taking to the to the hills for infantry tactics.

Troops braved the freezing conditions for a loaded march up the 886m summit of Pen y Fan.

The soldiers then faced a challenge day in London to test their initiative, before returning to Colchester to discuss what they had learnt with Army Sergeant Major WO1 Glenn Haughton, the Army’s senior soldier.

Captain Max Clark, who ran the course, said: "I’m really proud of the soldiers’ performance across the course and how they’ve endured and overcome the challenges they’ve been given.

"We always do this in January because cold weather adds a bit of extra pressure and we can see the raw spirit of our soldiers come through in the face of the elements."