COLCHESTER MP Will Quince has donned his fatigues to learn about life in the Army.

Mr Quince has joined the Armed Forces Parliamentary scheme as part of a project to learn about the defence issues - from the inside.

He will undergo a series of training days, the first of which saw him attend the Defence Academy of the UK and have a go on a shooting range.

Other sessions will give Mr Quince an insight into Arctic training undertaken by the Marines and a possible trip to the Falklands Islands.

Mr Quince said: “I am delighted to have secured a place on this sought after placement scheme.

"I have chosen to spend my year with the Army given the strong link with Colchester being home to 16 Air Assault Brigade.

"I am looking forward to meeting more members of our armed forces over the course of the year and join them as they undertake their training, exercises and day to day activities.

"I am hoping the placement will give me a valuable insight into the work of those serving in the Army and mean I am more more informed when it comes to debates on defence matters.”