THE title of best new recruit among future Army signallers has been given to a Worcester soldier.

Signaller Richard Ford, of St John's, won the silver tankard and certificate at the Army Training Centre in Lichfield.

He was named overall best recruit in his training troop after a variety of tests in his Phase 1 military training.

The 20-year-old former Christopher Whitehead pupil now has to go forward to Phase 2 training where he learns signalling skills before being posted with the Corps of Royal Signals.

"I've no idea why they picked me as best recruit," said Signaller Ford.

"They look at everything you do to decide.

"I'm pleased to be joining the Signals. Everything you see is interesting. Infantry might be more exciting but there are more options in Signals."

After his Phase 2 training he hopes to be posted to Cyprus.

"We're really proud of Richard," said C/Sgt Mark Beney, manager at the Foregate Street Army Careers Office.

"To come top is a challenge in itself as it is a hard course.