STUDENTS striving to be the best got a taste of army life.

Bolton College's public services students spent a day at Bolton's Army Reserve Centre in Nelson Street.

The 45-students, who have their eyes on a career within the public services sector, took part in a number of activities to develop their teamwork, leadership and communication skills.

Corporal Will Owen of the Duke of Lancaster Regiment said: "The students seemed to really enjoy the day and they committed wholeheartedly to all of the tasks that we set them. I was very impressed."

Gareth Wild, public services lecturer, added: "These visits are always a highlight for me. We try to get the students out of college and taking part in events like this as much as possible. The programme focuses on practical participation which helps the students pass the rigorous selection process of a number of public service organisations, including the police and fire service."

The students ended the day with a tour of the centre and they will shortly be spending five days on an army residential.