Ref. 71204-21TROOPER Richard Yockney joined the Army for a challenge now he's driving a Challenger.

At just 17, the former Hreod Parkway pupil is a qualified Challenger 2 tank driver.

Richard, of the 2nd Royal Tank Regiment, returned to his home town yesterday to chat with would-be recruits about life in the Army at the Army careers office in Church Place.

"It's a great life you can't beat it," he said.

"I have wanted to be a soldier from the age of 10 now I'm finally there.

"The Army can offer you a lot. It's not just a job it's a way of life.

"There are a lot of challenges to get over but you take the rough times with the smooth times and get on with it."

Richard left school last year after taking his GCSEs.

After completing 20 weeks of basic training in Hertfordshire, he went on to Bovington, Dorset, where he underwent an intensive six-month training programme, teaching him how to drive the Army's main battle tank.

"I was a bit nervous when I started the engine for the first time," said Richard, who is now posted in Germany. "But after a while it becomes second nature and it's like driving a car.

"The only difference is that this will demolish anything that it hits.

"One of the lads hit a big tree in training. It bought it down and the only damage to the Challenger 2 was a bent mudguard."

The keen sportsman said the Army can offer an impressive range of adventure activities.

"I like white water rafting and mountain biking and we got to do a fair bit down in Dorset," he said.

He urged anyone thinking about Army life to give it a go.

"You'll make some great mates and have a brilliant time," he said.

Richard will be around all week for a chat.

For more information call 01793 523251.