FYLDE troops proved stiff competition for members of the European reserve forces at a recent military skills event.

Privates Colin Nelson and Hayley Matthews, from St Annes, along with Private Jamie Darwin, from Blackpool, were runners-up in the competition held at Altcar Training Camp near Southport in May.

The event was organised by the Reserve Forces Association and involved 28 teams from territorial army and auxiliary air forces in Britain, Belgium and Germany.

The military skills competition is designed to test a variety of abilities including problem solving, military knowledge, leadership skills and physical stamina.

WO2 Dinger Bell, Chairman of the RFA Non-Commissioned Officer's Committee said: "It was a good opportunity for members of NATO, particularly the reserve forces, to experience working together."

Pictured: Back, left to right, Pte Jamie Darwin, and Pte Hayley Matthews. Front: Pte Jamie Lillystone and Pte Colin Nelson.