Pupils given tour of Royal Marine base

Corporal David Wilson (far right) who briefed pupils on what to look for on the nature trail. (Wallace Ferrier)

The pupils from Arbroath, Carnoustie, Monifieth, Kirriemuir, Forfar and Brechin were given a tour of the base, passing from one troop of Marines to another spending around one hour at each point.

They enjoyed rock climbing in the Ben Nowak Sports facility before following an on-camp nature trail which included a competition to spot various items that were hidden en route – which included a Royal Marine in full camouflage hiding in plain sight next to the pathway.

After a lunch in the golf pavilion, it was over to the rifle range for some target practice.

Accompanying the pupils was The Lord Lieutenant of Angus Mrs Pat Sawers, who had helped to organise the tour as part of ‘The Spirit of Adventure’ organised by the Angus Lieutenancy and 45 Commando, and who was persuaded to try the rock climbing.

At the end of the day one pupil from each school was chosen to spend a week at The Ridgeway Adventure Centre at Ardmore. There they will enjoy activities including mountain climbing, sea kayaking, survival training on uninhabited islands and nature walks.