PEOPLE in Dorchester will be given an insight into military life today as part of a recruitment drive.

The British Army will use the latest virtual reality technology in South Street on Saturday to display various military activities.

The army is looking to recruit part-time soldiers and officers to the Army Reserve and is currently targeting the South West region.

Local Army Reserve units including C Company 6 Rifles, 105 Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, and 7 Military Intelligence Battalion will be at the Dorchester event.

Virtual reality headsets, powered by Oculus, will enable users to get a first-hand 360 degree experience of what it is like to do an Army parachute jump, drive a Challenger battle tank, and take part in military exercises.

Those in the Army Reserves are required to commit a minimum of 19 days a year. Reserves are paid to train with instructors and travel the world alongside the regular army.

Reservists are given the chance to gain civilian qualifications while they volunteer. These qualifications range from apprenticeships to literacy and numeracy skills up to A-level equivalent.

An Army Reservist’s starting pay begins at £36.75 a day. They will receive a tax free £300 bonus when they enlist and a further £2,000 on completing their training.

If the minimum training equipment is met, the reservist can also receive a tax free bonus starting at £432.

Sergeant Jim Morgan said: “No matter what your day job, the Army Reserve has something to offer you in your spare time, whether you want to use and improve your existing workplace skills, or try your hand at something completely different.

“You can travel the world, gain extra qualifications and training, and benefit from improved confidence and leadership skills that will help you shine in your civilian career.”

Today’s Dorchester event, which takes place between 8am and 5pm, is one of a series of events taking place across the region.

Other events are also taking place in Bristol, Swindon and Poole.