AN ACOMB teenager has passed out of York's Army career office with the highest grade seen at the local training centre.

Chris White, 19, passed selection for the Armed Forces having studied on the Military Preparation Course, offered by YH Training Services.

The youngster has been praised by his tutors for his dedication in turning around his fortunes, and succeeding on the course.

Having dropped out of Harrogate Training college in May 2011, Chris got caught up in minor criminal activity, before he realised the Army was the career for him.

Desperate to fulfil his potential and get back on track he enrolled with YH Training Services on its Military Preparation Course (MPC) based at Fulford Road Barracks.

There he integrated himself with like-minded peers, improved his maths and English skills while undertaking physical fitness and Uniformed Services.

Having achieved everything required of him on his course, while waiting for his selection date, his leadership and mentoring skills were further rewarded when the MPC team offered him short term work, supporting other young people wanting to get into the Armed Forces.

Chris's tutor Mick Thompson said: "Chris is unique. We have successfully helped over twenty young people into the Armed Forces in the last year through MPC, however none have travelled the distance Chris has.

"It was his quiet reflection that allowed him to take control of his future and in turn this meant he fully embraced the M.P.C. provision. He never gave in, he never made excuses and he always looked forward.

"This drive to be a good role model for his peers and his own family has put him where he is today and he fully deserves his A grade.

"The biggest achievement for our team is seeing him walk out of our door for basic training, an improved and focused version of the young man we first met”

WO2 Army Careers advisor D C Lawson from York Army Careers Centre in Micklegate, added: "The Military Preparation Course, currently running in both York and Scarborough by ex-military personnel, helps to prepare, nurture and develop individuals into quality applicants that predominantly ensure a smooth transition through the Army process into the British Army."