CROWDS flocked to Preston town centre on Saturday for career advice and job opportunities from the Territorial Army.

The Armed Forces Information Day gave local people an insight into skills taught in the army from driving a tank to polishing boots.

Major James Hill, from Preston Army Careers Office, in Fishergate, said: "The day was a tremendous success. Eight young people actually applied for jobs and altogether 32 showed an interest, not only in the regular army but in the territorials."

Other events included a march from the North West Infantry band as well as a collection for the Army Benevolent Fund which raised £218.57 for the good cause.

Preston's mayor, Coun Joseph Hood, and the commander of the North West Brigade, brigadier Alex Birtwistle, toured the recruiting caravans and met volunteers.

Dozens of people enjoyed an inspection of the impressive DROPS vehicle -- used for carrying the army's equipment -- from transport specialists of the Royal Logistic Corps.

Also present were members of the Queen's Lancashire regiment, its T A counterpart, the Lancastrian and Cumbrian Volunteers, the Adjutant General Corps and the Royal Navy.

On Saturday, March 31, a national open day is planned in Preston for people wishing to learn more about the TA.

Army recruitment day held on the Flagmarket,Preston. Carrying out artifical resusitation on one of the practise dummies Cpl Arif Heath of the Royal Army Medical Corp and Chantelle Connor,12, of Maitland St, Preston.

Pictured are the Mayor Preston Coun Joe Hood and Lt Col Simon Bell C.O. of Kings and Cheshire Regiment take the salute in the town's Flagmarket.