A FORMER pupil of Feniscowles Primary School has gained a distinction from the Army after winning the award for best physical training.

Corporal Jonathon Mitchell, 17, joined the army at the Army Careers Information Office in Blackburn and began basic training at Bassingbourn last August.

During 30 weeks of arduous training he learned first aid, survival techniques, physical training and marksmanship.

He also spent two weeks adventurous training in the South Downs where he practised canoeing, rock climbing and hill walking.

Jonathon, who also attended Walton Le Dale High School, passed out of basic training last month and is now looking forward to a full army career.

He said: "The best thing about the army is that you are always doing something different and are not just stuck in an office.

"You are also being paid to keep fit."

Jonathon will continue his training art the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering at Borden, Hampshire, where he will be trained as a vehicle mechanic.

His mother, Anne Lincoln, 43, of Coronation Avenue, said: "When he was four years old we were having a natter with a minister and he said 'My heart's desire is to be in the army' and he has never wavered from that."