A GRUELLING round of 80 press-ups in one minute kicked off the day NEW College students spent with members of the Royal Marines.

Pupils on the Uniformed Public Services course were given the chance to find out more about life in the Marines when two Commandos visited the Peakman Street campus last month.

As well as strength and fitness tests, students also learned the skills of unarmed combat and how to take down an opponent without causing any harm.

The visiting commandos were part of the Royal Marines Visibility Team who tour the UK on the look out for people with the determination required to join their elite infantry.

Inspired students will have the chance to attend a week-long residential course where they will take part in endurance training, weaponry lessons and navigation skills.