PRINCE Harry took charge of a 48-strong parade of military cadets at Eton last night, fuelling speculation that he may opt for a military career.

Harry, 18, was appointed Commander of Eton's Combined Cadet Force's formal trooping of the colours.

The Prince of Wales was among those looking on as his youngest son led the guard of honour's march on to College Field with their colours at the yearly tattoo, held since "The Corps" was founded in 1860.

As well as the parade and inspection of the Royal Guard, the hour-long tattoo included a gun race, unarmed combat, RAF continuity displays, the corps band and pipes and drums, and culminated in a set-piece battle.

Harry, ceremonial sword in hand, confidently barked out the orders, his voice resonating around the walled college green.

He led his troops out to be inspected by Old Etonian Brigadier Jamie Balfour, former Commander of the British Armed Forces in Bosnia and now Director of Infantry.

Charles's guest for the evening was former Royal nanny Tiggy Pettifer, who was among about 500 guests including the boys' friends and families. A large group of Eton schoolboys in formal attire also looked on from a distance.

After Harry and his troops retired to change from their berets and formal tunics into their battle gear, the crowd was treated to a noisy firing display by light artillery guns which, along with equipment such as Scimitar armoured vehicles, are on loan from the Army.

Music was provided by the Corps Band and The Pipes and Drums led by Major Jim Motherwell, the Queen's piper.