JUST six months after learning to ride, 18-year-old Andrew Bury is set to take part in one of the biggest displays in the military calendar.

Andrew, of Canterbury Avenue, Poulton, will be taking part in the famous musical drive of the King's Troop at Earl's Court.

The 100th Royal Tournament takes place from July 9-20 and is a thrilling display involving six horse-drawn gun teams manoeuvring at high speed in the narrow confines of the arena.

Andrew, a former pupil of St Mary's Roman Catholic School, Poulton, had never ridden before he joined the army.

"It was a spur of the moment decision," he said. "We were in training on Salisbury Plain when King's Troop came along and did a display and I thought I wouldn't mind having a go."

The King's Troop preserves the skills of what was a revolutionary method of warfare in the 18th century.

As a newcomer to the troop, Andrew will be among the attendants on horseback who help hold the horses when the guns are fired.

He said: "It is a great feeling to be part of a well-known troop and be able to parade in front of the Queen."

The troop's musical drive is designed to perfect speed and mobility and is a permanent fixture at each Royal Tournament.

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