A WOMAN from Hereford has become the first female soldier to pass one of the military's most demanding courses.

Private Addy Carter, 21, of 16 Medical Regiment, based in Colchester, was presented with a maroon beret after completing the All Arms Pre Parachute Selection (AAPPS) - known as P Company.

The three-and-a-half-week course based in Catterick culminates in a week of eight events known as Test Week, which includes loaded marches, log and stretcher races, and an aerial confidence course.

Private Carter, who is a former student at Hereford Sixth Form College, heard about the course while she was doing basic training.

RELATED NEWS:

She said that although it sounded tough, she wanted to give it a go to prove to herself that she could do it.

She said: "As a woman, I wasn’t treated any differently by the instructors, nor did I expect or want to be.

"Physically I found it very challenging, but it’s about showing that you can deliver when things get hard.

"I just kept telling myself that every step was a step closer to the end."

OTHER NEWS:

Private Carter said that when she came back to her unit, she talked to other female soldiers about the training and they have said that they are now more confident to give it a go.

She said: "I hope that I’ve shown to other female soldiers that it’s achievable."

The next stage for Private Carter will be the Basic Parachute Course at RAF Brize Norton, which will earn her "wings" as a trained military parachutist.

Pte Carter is presented with her beret after completing the course. Picture: Ministry of Defence

Pte Carter is presented with her beret after completing the course. Picture: Ministry of Defence

Major Chris Braithwaite, Officer Commanding Pegasus Company, said: "I hope that Private Carter’s success on All Arms Pre-Parachute Selection encourages others to attempt the course.

"I would like to congratulate all who passed and wish them the best for their future service within Airborne Forces."