THE Deputy Leader of the House of Lords visited Catterick Garrison to witness the success of the first ‘Supercamp’ for youngsters.

The Right Honourable Lord Howe, who is also Minister of State for Defence, visited Marne Barracks to see around 70 children take part in the garrison’s first ever Supercamp.

The camp involves youngsters from across Yorkshire taking part in a range of activities including fieldcraft, fitness, camouflaging and assault courses.

The initiative aims to give the young people an insight into what the Army offers and Lord Howe said it represented the Forces’ commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive Army.

He said: “I think this is a good example of how the Army is changing and building lasting relationships with local communities.

“What I am seeing is all these kids building their self-confidence, their sense of problem solving and social skills and the skills you want young people to develop.

“They are taking part in a variety of fun but challenging activities and there is a real positive buzz about the place and a good feel from all those taking part.”

The Supercamps are run by the 4th Infantry Brigade, the regional brigade for Yorkshire and the North-East, and will see more than 270 teenagers from West and South Yorkshire youth groups and schools take part in them this week.

Their success could see the scheme rolled out to other garrisons across the country in the future.