PUPILS dumped their study books and opted for a day of abseiling, high-speed boat chases and unarmed combat in a break away from the classroom.The action packed lesson was for youngsters at Faylingaye High School, Woodbridge, as part of a recruitment drive by the Royal Marines.

PUPILS dumped their study books and opted for a day of abseiling, high-speed boat chases and unarmed combat in a break away from the classroom.

The action packed lesson was for youngsters at Faylingaye High School, Woodbridge, as part of a recruitment drive by the Royal Marines.

Around 100 pupils were put through their paces at the Meet the Marines event, at Tallington Lakes and RAF Wittering, near Peterborough, on Wednesday.

Catherine Gemmell, a Farlingaye teacher, said: “The students and I finished the day with a new admiration for the Royal Marine Commandos.

“We all left Peterborough buzzing with adrenaline and excitement.

“I have heard a few of my pupils say that they are really interesting in joining the Royal Marines after all the activities and adventures they took part in.”

Lieutenant Commander Lee Thorne, regional business manager for Navy and Marine recruitment in the east of England, said: “Despite all the negative stories you hear of young people's fitness, we saw high levels of fitness and commitment, and a few individuals who showed real potential to join our ranks.”

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