A TEENAGER is to realise his dream of joining the Army after combining his military ambitions with invaluable studies.

Student Daniel Graham was chosen from scores of people nationwide to undertake the Army Further Education Bursary Scheme last September.

As a result, he received £2,000 from the Ministry of Defence to both pursue his goal of serving his country and gain an education through Darlington College.

The 18-year-old, from Catterick, is due to complete his BTEC Uniformed and Public Services course next month – and will then go on to start his full Army training in August.

The bursary initiative sees the MoD work with colleges to support students who are keen on careers in the forces, giving them useful qualifications to complement their military training.

Daniel had to complete a gruelling challenge as part of his bid to join the scheme, facing strength tests and a one-and-a-half-mile run.

And his dedication paid off earlier this month when he came through the final selection process in Edinburgh to secure his place in the Army.

He said: "Joining the Army is all I have ever wanted to do. My dad was in the light infantry and I could never see myself just sat behind a desk in an office. I can’t wait to get started and see some of the world."

Course tutor Gary Paxton said: "Daniel has shown great commitment and enthusiasm in working towards his goal of joining the Army and is a fine example of what the bursary scheme was created to achieve."