A DALRY soldier has won an army award after finishing his recruit training.

Highlander Craig Gibson successfully completed the Combat Infantryman’s Course at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, North Yorkshire.

The 21-year-old will receive his award at the pass out parade ceremony at the Infantry Training Centre on Friday, August 19.

Craig said: “I wish I had joined earlier, but it didn’t happen and I ended up in a factory.

“I did that for a while until the routine of it finally got to me. The army life appeals to me, keeping yourself fit, travelling around the world, and there is excitement involved, of course.

“Right from the start, I enjoyed the course at Catterick. There are obviously highs and lows over the six months, but you keep working hard, pushing ahead, and being part of a team is great.

“Being told I had won this award was a bit of a shock, to be honest, but it is good to know the training team think I am good at my profession.”

Craig’s platoon commander, Lieutenant Dan Morgan, added: “Highlander Gibson has been awarded the Best Recruit prize. His performance on the course has been impressive.

“He has been outstanding in every area of his training.

“Highlander Gibson is a definite NCO of the future.”

After two weeks’ driver training and some well-earned leave, Craig will join his new unit the 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, also based in Catterick.