SOLDIERS from the region have been helping to build bridges with youngsters in Northern Ireland.

The 1st Battalion, the Green Howards, which is based in Ballykelly, welcomed pupils from a local primary school who sampled life in the British Army for a day - and tested themselves on the assault course at the barracks.

The visit was part of a summer school for ten and 11-year-olds, including some of the soldiers' children. All were presented with certificates.

The battalion completes its Northern Ireland tour in January. It will move to Chepstow, from where soldiers will retrain for jungle warfare.