THOUSANDS of youngsters are descending on Europe’s biggest army base - to see if they are cut out to join the real Professionals.

The annual Army Careers Exhibition - Ace - at Catterick Garrison is one of the largest events of its kind and is now in its 11th year.

The three-day extravaganza is this year giving the youngsters who attend a virtual experience of Army life through the use of "mission pods."

Using the latest technology, the pod stations recreate scenarios that a soldier could face, such as bomb disposal, tank driving and front-line attack, to test skill, agility and logic.

The teenagers are also be able to take part in a number of military challenges, such as the obstacle and assault course, to test their physical agility, and test their aim with several shooting tasks.

The exhibition is using the slogan Start Thinking Soldier to encourage more to think seriously about a career in the service.

Just three years ago the Army had to alter its recruitment criteria and training regime to cope with "less physically robust" modern youngsters and a recent survey saw more than 61 per cent of young people claiming they spent less than an hour considering their career choices.

And exhibition organiser Lieutenant Colonel Richard Preece said it was clear that investment in career advice and experience was invaluable.

"We understand that it is a difficult decision for young people to make when choosing the right career path for them, which is why events such as these are important to both students and teachers," he said.

"The Army offers over 140 different career options, from infantry to medical, intelligence to communications."

On Saturday the event will be opened up to the general public as part of the Catterick Garrison Open Day with free admission from 10am until 4pm.