A GROUP of soldiers have taken up guard outside Swindon's town hall as part of the Army's continuing recruitment campaign.

The troops from the Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Regiment were in Swindon challenging young people to "Be the Best" and win prizes and the chance to join them for a look at Army life.

Among the challenges taken on by the potential recruits was a mountain bike challenge to win a place on the RGBW's Sphinx Endeavour weekend where young people can get a taster of life as a modern soldier. There were also quad bikes, a tug-of-war competition and performances from the Lucknow Band and Corps of Drums.

The visit to Swindon is part of a week-long series of events across the RGBW's home region designed to highlight that the Army is recruiting for a range of careers and not just soldiering. The event is also being used to raise funds for its chosen charity the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.