A SOLDIER is returning to his roots after completing his initial army training.

Private Mark Wylie, 18, will be at the Darlington Army Careers' information office, in Northgate, all week to talk to young people who are thinking about joining up.

After leaving Hurworth Comprehensive School with 11 GCSEs, Pte Wylie enlisted with the Adjutant General's Corps, responsible for maintaining the personal documents and financial administration for soldiers all over the world.

During his basic training he has been involved in exercises in Wales and a weekend in France, learning about battle sites and war zones.

This week, he is hoping to share his experiences.

Senior recruiter, warrant officer Alan Pounder, said: "Mark has set a great example to any school leaver. He has already combined adventure training and foreign travel with developing new administrative skills, and all in a relatively short time.

"If a young person in this area is interested in joining up they should take any opportunity to come and talk to young recruits like Mark, so they can ask questions that they might have to someone of their own age, who shares their local background."