ST Ambrose College's young rugby players stepped up to the plate when the Royal Marines gave them a lesson in military training.

Formed in 1755, The Royal Marines is one of the most respected fighting forces worldwide with a reputation over sea and land for always going that extra mile.

Corporal James Eachus, who over his last 14 years of service in every continent including Afghanistan and the Balkans is now part of a commando squad targeting some of the North-West's great schools.

He said: “It just a taster really. We go through some basic circuits we would do either on board or on an active forward base. We keep it simple at this stage.”

He added: “When I joined at 18 I was just a normal young man, not particularly fit, but interested in all sports. The training is tough; it is challenging but that's what it is supposed to be; that's what has made us what we are today.”

He added: “If you want adventure and one day that is nothing like the next then the Royal Marines is for you, but you do have to be made of the right stuff and that's what these drills just begin to test.”

St. Ambrose College's Faculty leader for sport Mike Fitzsimon said: “Rugby training is one level, but Royal Marines training is another step up completely. Even doing this taster exercise showed just how fit, agile and strong our front line troops have to be and that physical fitness isn't a choice; it's a necessity.”

Mr Fitzsimon added: “St. Ambrose would like to thank Corporal James Eachus and his team for their efforts today and for the efforts of The Royal Marines on our behalf all over the world.”