AS THE town's newest Army recruits took their oath of allegiance to the Queen, it was a proud moment for their families.

And the two teenagers, who were joined by two others from the county, said they couldn't wait to start their training.

Richard Robinson, of Pinehurst, was the oldest of the new recruits signing up.

"I just thought that there wasn't really anything for me in my area," said the 18-year-old.

"I thought joining the Army would be a good career for me. I will get to see the world and make new friends."

Richard is getting ready to pack his bags and head to Catterick for his 26-week training course, before joining the Rifles. "A few of my friends have already joined up," he said.

"They told me that the training was all a mind game, but you look back on it and think that you did enjoy it."

But he isn't looking forward to the 4am starts. "It's going to be winter, and I will be in North Yorkshire," he said.

"I'm not looking forward to that part of it."

Also signing his Army contract was 16-year-old Matthew Beaumont-Farrell.

He said that he had been inspired to enlist by his family.

"I had a great-uncle who was in the forces, so was my grandfather and my brother," said Matthew, of Park North.

"And I think my family are all proud of me joining. I'm really looking forward to starting my training."

Matthew, who will be joining the Parachute Regiment, is completing the first phase of his training at Harrogate, and finishing it at Catterick.

"I'm looking forward to going, although I'm not looking forward to having to get up early," he said.

The teenagers, along with Ben Nash, of Melksham, and Richard Mansell, of Calne, are all now on leave until they start their training.

Sergeant John Lambert, Army recruiter in Swindon, said: "I am delighted to welcome these recruits into the Army and they can all look forward to a challenging and varied career which will provide them with numerous opportunities to meet new friends, play sport and travel the world.

"The Army encourages continuous personal and career development and these recruits will be able to gain qualifications recognised in Army and civilian life.

"We wish these recruits all the best as they embark on a diverse and interesting career in the Army."