A KEEN young historian is destined for an Army life after he received inspiration from a top ranking soldier.

Connor Mattison's interest in the military was aroused by the story of heroism of the late Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Victoria Cross recipient Captain Richard "Dickie" Annand.

Capt Annand, the first soldier to receive the VC in the Second World War, died on Christmas Eve in hospital, in Durham, aged 90.

Connor was keen to attend a recent thanksgiving service in memory of Capt Annand, in Durham.

Family friend June Lenegan, a former sergeant major in the DLI's Territorial Army successor, the 7th Battalion Light Infantry, agreed to take Connor from his home in Newton Aycliffe to Durham for the cathedral service.

To make a day of it, she first took him to the DLI regimental museum, in Durham.

While looking at the military exhibits, Connor recognised the former Gulf War general Sir Peter de la Billiere, who was to be among the speakers at the memorial service.

Eleven-year-old Connor, who has read one of Sir Peter's books, approached him.

Sir Peter was so enthused by Connor's interest that he agreed to send him a copy of his latest book, Supreme Courage, which details VC winners.

It duly arrived within days, including an inscription: "Connor Mattison, an enterprising young man. Good luck and courage in your life ahead."

Ms Lenegan said: "Connor is thrilled to bits. His mother has agreed to buy him a copy of the book so he can keep this one pristine.

"Sir Peter was really very good with him. He thought Connor was very resourceful the way he approached him."

Connor, who recently celebrated his 11th birthday, is now counting the days to his 12th birthday, when he can join the Army Cadet detachment at Newton Aycliffe.