YOUNGSTERS from three Gorleston high schools were put through their paces during a visit to Merville Barracks in Colchester. Officers from Magdalen Neighbourhood Policing Team worked in partnership with Cliff Park, Oriel and Lynn Grove high schools to take 17 pupils to the home of the Parachute Regiment last Wednesday.

YOUNGSTERS from three Gorleston high schools were put through their paces during a visit to Merville Barracks in Colchester.

Officers from Magdalen Neighbourhood Policing Team worked in partnership with Cliff Park, Oriel and Lynn Grove high schools to take 17 pupils to the home of the Parachute Regiment last Wednesday.

The pupils were given an insight into a soldiers' life including the strict regime they adhere to.

Pupils' fitness and stamina levels were tested in a challenging assault course and they got to try on a full paratroopers kit.

Soldiers demonstrated various items of weaponry and pupils were put into group for team building challenges.

Officers from Magdalen NPT who attended the day were Sgt Mark Pack, PC Dane Hubbard, PC Adam Hovells and police community support officer Bob Lawless.

The day was a challenging experience and follows a similar visit undertaken by the team earlier in the year with youngsters from the Pupil Referral Unit in Gorleston.

PC Hubbard said: “The pupils got a lot out of the trip and many are interested in visiting the barracks again as part of a development weekend the regiment holds.

“Escorting the pupils to Colchester was a great way for us to engage with young people and a good opportunity for youngsters from the different high schools to mix.”

Contact: Magdalen NPT 0845 456 4567 or email sntmagdalen@norfolk.pnn.police.uk.