THE Army is offering intensive part-time management and leadership courses to between 30 and 40 young men and women in the North West.

Selected candidates between the ages of 18 and 28 who successfully complete the eight-month programme - which starts in April - will be invited to attend a two-week qualifying course at the world's most respected officer training establishment, the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, with a view to becoming officers in the Territorial Army.

The initiative is designed to attract young and professionally-minded officers into the TA.

Colonel Simon Bell, a senior marketing executive with MBNA Bank, is the region's senior TA officer. He said: "The TA is a modern and progressive organisation which forms a quarter of the Army's overall strength. It plays an increasingly important role in supporting the regular Army in the UK and overseas.

"This initiative is a first and successful applicants will receive the highest standard of training in man-management, leadership and many transferable practical and inter-personal skills, leading to enhanced CVs and improved career prospects.

"We're looking for young professionals, students, managers and executives with drive, enthusiasm, confidence and integrity."

Chosen people will have to meet the challenges of an intensive training environment but will be rewarded with the chance to undergo the Sandhurst course, widely recognised by industry, education, employers and Government bodies as the very best leadership and management training facility available.

Col Bell added: "In addition to the personal and professional benefits, successful candidates will enjoy great comradeship and social engagement.

"Not only is it fun and free but they'll actually get paid to attend the course. I did this 18 years ago, I've enjoyed every minute of it and it's certainly helped my civilian career."

"Selection weekends will be held in March. There's no obligation, it's a chance to meet potential young officers and for them to meet us and find our more."

Call 0845 6075000 or visit website www.ta.mod.uk.