A teenage soldier from South Oxhey has won an army award after finishing his recruit training.

Private Bradley Swaine, 18, has successfully completed the Combat Infantryman’s Course at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, North Yorkshire.

His platoon commander, Lieutenant Paul Machniki, said: “Private Swaine has won the Soldiers’ Soldier award.

“This is an award that is voted for by the recruits and it goes to the man who they would want by their side in a tight situation; a high accolade indeed.

“Private Swaine has approached what is a tough course with good humour and a willingness to help his fellow recruits. This award is a well-deserved pat on the back from his peers."

Private Swaine will receive his award at the pass out parade ceremony at the Infantry Training Centre tomorrow.

Private Swaine said: “My ambition has always been to be a soldier so I joined, more or less, straight from King’s Langley School.

“Mum, like all mums I suppose, wasn’t too keen to start with. She has come around to it now and has been really supportive.

“She doesn’t know I’ve won an award, so it will be a nice surprise for her during the parade. Some of my friends, and even some of my school teachers, didn’t think I had the self-discipline to complete the army training.

" They will think differently now if they see me going up to collect an award. ”

After driver training and some well-earned leave Private Swaine will join his new unit, the 2nd Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment, in Cottesmore.