THE Territorial Army is launching a fast-track recruitment drive which could net new recruits £1,400.

Volunteers from across Worcestershire and Herefordshire have to squeeze 12 months training into four weeks to secure the cash.

It normally takes up to a year for TA recruits to become soldiers through weekend and mid-week training.

The Midlands Challenge, an action-packed one-month training programme, is an ambitious attempt by Army bosses to boost recruitment across the region.

Major Mike Butterwick, of the Territorial Army, said: "Nothing like this has ever been done before in this country and we are confident that it will be a big success."

Recruits will have the opportunity to take part in rifle shooting, rock climbing, canoeing and hill walking.

The four-week programme will be held at the Army Training Centre, Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, Staffordshire, between Wednesday, July 25, and Saturday, August 25.

Recruits are also being offered a two-week course at Lichfield between Wednesday, August 8, and Saturday, August 25, which pays £558.

The recruits on the two-week course will also have completed more than half the 31-day qualifying period towards a tax-free £395 bounty at the end of the year.

Under the programme, Army officials want to attract 100 new soldiers across the West Midlands - about 25 per cent of its annual target.

Recruits who successfully complete the four-week element of Midlands Soldier will pass out at a special parade attended by parents, friends and partners in Lichfield on Saturday, August 25.

To take part in Midlands Challenge new recruits need to be aged between 17 and 43.

Anyone interested in learning more about the scheme is urged to visit www.midlands challenge.co.uk or text midlandschallenge' followed by your postcode to 60300. If you live in Worcestershire and are interested in joining, contact Bob Bath on 07766603966.

If you live in Herefordshire and are interested in joining, call Steve Huyton 07786 110524.