The Paras: Making the Cut

A group of hopefuls take part in the Parachute Regiment Assessment course in Catterick, North Yorkshire, all watched over by veteran commander Rob Price.

During the first few sessions of training the recruits must swear a voice of allegiance, swap their civilian clothes for army combats and take their first steps on the drill square.

The training intensifies and the recruits must quickly master the skills of being an infantry soldier, as they are tested in their first platoon assault.

The platoon are faced with their first series of major examinations, from room inspections, to drill parades and knowledge of regimental history.

P-Company face a five-day series of gruelling physical tests, and to pass they must demonstrate they have the sheer determination and physical robustness to be a paratrooper.

In the most important part of their training, the recruits are forced through one muscular trial after another, including the log race, an aerial assault course and milling.

The proudest moment of the course has arrived for the recruits, as they finally reach the end and pass out in front of their families.

Having completed their Parachute Regiment infantry training, the men in Athens Platoon now head to RAF Brize Norton to take their parachute jump course.