Students at Nescot College in Epsom got a taste of army life this week when Royal Marine Commandos visited the college to demonstrate what’s needed to be part of one of the world’s elite fighting units.

Three Marine Commandoes, known as ‘bootnecks’ after the piece of leather worn on their collar, gave a hard-hitting presentation before taking students out to the sports field for a taste of commando training, the longest and toughest of any NATO force.

Royal Marine Stuart Blasby said: "We’ll make them run a mile and a half at marine pace before letting them do the remaining mile and a half at the best pace they can manage."

Fellow commando Joel Oliver added: "After that we’ll go straight into some circuit training, obviously at a lower intensity than with commandos, before putting them through some team games to bring out their leadership and decision-making abilities."

For the students, speaking to members of an elite unit was an inspiring opportunity.

Jamie Simper, from Colliers Wood, said: "Hearing all of this from the lads themselves, and being able to find out in depth it’s everything I’ve always dreamed of and I’m starting to think I could do it.

"My girlfriend and I are about to get engaged.

"I know her and my mum would be worried, but I think they’d like being able to tell people I’m a Royal Marine."

Matt Pickett, from Worcester Park, said: "I didn’t realise the level of decision making involved and that really appeals to me.

"I also like the fact that, as a marine, you’re working with lads you know rather than with strangers from other corps.

"I think it’s important to have that bond."

On visiting the college, Marine Joe Arthurs said: "It’s great meeting the youngsters and we are allowed to answer everything they ask honestly.

"We’re just here to set straight some of the myths about the elite forces and share our experiences, good and bad.

"The students might be really keen now but wait until we’ve put them through the physical, they’ll hate us then."

For more information visit royalnavy.mod.uk/royalmarines or call 0845 600 1444.