CHILDREN have been getting the chance to experience life as Royal Marine commandos.

Teenagers tried out rock climbing, abseiling and unarmed combat at Imphal Barracks, in York, as part of a Meet the Marines event.

They also had the chance to take a boat ride in a Royal Marines raiding craft and go paintballing.

The event is part of a nationwide campaign aimed at discovering the next generation of commandos.

It runs until Saturday and is open to anyone aged between 15 and 36.

Elite Royal Marine commando, Lance Corporal Terry Ormiston, is at the barracks to talk to participants about careers in the Royal Marines.

He said: "Completing commando training has given me an immense sense of achievement and, although it's the UK's longest and hardest basic training, I have enjoyed every minute and I've made some lifelong friends."

Major Mike Bestwick said: "We're always looking for fit young men to join us and this event enables people to find out what we are really like.

"You don't have to be special to join the Royal Marines, but you will be by the time you finish the training.

"Life as a commando can be the ultimate adventure. There's no such thing as the average Monday morning."

Anyone wanting to book a place can call 08456 001444.