A NEW recruitment drive has been launched by Widnes Army Reserve Centre.

A course is offering people the chance to learn how to become a part-time infantry soldier and earn up to £500 a week.

Training has been planned around civilian lives.

It takes from three to eight weeks, depending on how much time individuals can fit in with their own jobs.

Afterwards, recruits will be paid up to £10,000 whilst deploying in Croatia and Kenya later this year.

Here they will learn the skills of jungle warfare and take part in full attacks using live rounds and grenades.

Lance Corporal Stacy Truscott, aged 30, from Runcorn is part of B Company, 4 Mercian which is based in Widnes.

She joined as combat Medic Technician five years ago and said: “I joined as I wanted a challenge, to learn new skills and to test myself whilst getting fit and doing something different to working 9-5.

“During my time within the reserves I have attended numerous courses which have provided me with skills and knowledge that I am able to transfer over into civilian street.”

Her role has taken her to Cyprus where she worked as part of the UN with other nationalities.

Recently, she travelled to Uganda to train soldiers and medics before they deployed to Somalia.

This year, she will be on exercises in Kenya and Croatia.

She added: “I’d urge anyone considering joining the Army Reserve to do so.

“Being in the reserves gives people the opportunity to learn new skills and challenge themselves, whilst meeting new people and seeing different parts of the world.”

Anyone interested in applying can call Widnes Army Reserve Centre on 0151 257 2470.