A COMMANDO trainee from York has received his coveted Green Beret - the distinctive hallmark of commando troops.

Kevin Heppell, 19, passed out at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines, Lympstone, Devon, with 838 Troop, on May 9, after completing 30 weeks intensive training.

To gain his Green Beret, the former Millthorpe School pupil had to pass a series of tests, carrying a kit weighing 32lbs.

Kevin said: "Thirty weeks of the most arduous training in the world is enough to change any man. It develops unique qualities, which will rarely be found anywhere. It's been a fantastic experience for me and I've made some lifelong friends among my fellow Royal Marines.

"The sense of achievement felt by all of us is immense but I know that many more challenges are to come, challenges which we are all well equipped to meet."

If you are interested in becoming a Royal Marines Commando, telephone the recruiting hotline on 0845 6075555 or visit www.mjobs.co.uk

Updated: 09:25 Thursday, May 15, 2003