ARMY Sergeant Shaun Findlay is used to bawling out recruits on the parade ground - but is now gearing up to battle on behalf of troubled youngsters in a North-East town.

The 29-year-old is quitting the Army to become an assertive outreach worker with Darlington Borough Council.

He will work with troubled youngsters in a bid to steer them away from a life of crime and drug-taking.

The initiative, believed to be the first of its kind in the country, is being run by Darlington's Youth Offending and Community Safety Service.

Shaun, who has been serving with the Royal Logistics Corps, will act as a father figure to the youngsters, showing them everything from how to shave to preparing for a job interview.

He was brought up on a rough council estate in Falkirk, Scotland, and says he understands the problems youngsters face growing up.

"I have been at school with people who have died through heroin abuse and I know what it's like growing up in an area of high unemployment, and where there is risk of young people getting involved in drugs," he said.

"I was lucky, because my parents kept me motivated and I was able to leave by joining the Army at an early age.

"Being in the Army taught me discipline. I have looked after recruits, ensuring they got out of bed at the right time, were well dressed, and generally acting as a father figure."

Shaun, who lives in Trimdon, County Durham, with wife Cheryl and son Jack, will be referred youngsters who are either already involved or at risk of drug taking.

"I believe that prevention is better than cure, and my job will not only be about shouting at the children, but giving them guidance," he said