A GROUP of young people have taken their first steps towards a military career.

The teenagers, who have just completed their GCSEs, signed on at Bishop Auckland's Armed Forces Careers Office.

They will enjoy a host of different careers from the Royal Artillery to the Royal Engineers and were presented with their attestation oaths of allegiance certificates by Major Mike Sherlock, head of Army recruitment for County Durham and Teesside.

Among the group were Ryan Young, from Thistle Park, Crook, and Christopher Marriot, from Stanley.

Both have chosen to become vehicle mechanics with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and will begin their training this month at the Army Foundation College.

Ryan said: "I am really looking forward to the challenges of a career in vehicle mechanics and the travel and sporting opportunities that the job will bring."