Clean cut recruits swear allegiance

They were part of a group of 15 recruits who were formally enlisted in front of the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Don Worlding.

Former South Luton High School pupil Alexanda Darlow, 21, said he’d wanted to be a soldier since he was five years old.

He is joining the Blues and Royals, part of the Household Cavalry. It is one of the oldest and most senior regiments in the British Army.

Alex, who battled serious health problems before signing up, said: “As far as I’m concerned this is a career for life. I hope I will be a bodyguard for the Queen.”

Fellow rookie Steven Simmons was also barmy about the army as a boy.

The 17-year-old – who went to Van Dyke Upper School in Leighton Buzzard en route to the Royal Artillery – said: “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. And I’m just so happy I made it. I want to make my parents proud.” Twenty-one-year-old Stephen Murray of Dunstable, a one-time Manshead pupil, is looking forward to wearing the distinctive bearskin helmet of the Grenadier Guards.

“I’m very excited,” he admitted. “It’s something I wanted to pursue since I left school.”

Recruiting officer Major Geoff Woodcock said only the best candidates were selected.

> For more information about an army career call 01582 725752 or email [email protected]