A former Keighley electrician has passed one of the world's most gruelling military tests.

Richard Hollings, pictured right, from Braithwaite, has made it into the elite parachute regiment.

The 25-year-old former Oakbank School pupil will soon go on to take the basic parachute course at RAF Brize Norton. He is now a member of 1 Para and is based in Cardiff.

Richard is a keen rugby league player and has previously captained Keighley Albion.

He served his electrician's apprenticeship with SIAS Building Services, in South Street, and worked for the firm for six years.

He began his combat training in July, last year, and formally passed out at Catterick on February 8. He had to take a tough series of tests, known as P Company, which includes challenges such as a 20-mile endurance march, a log race and a special type of assault course designed to overcome candidates' fear of heights.

His father, David, said his son was presented with an endeavour award for his exceptional performance.

He added: "The training was really demanding - a lot of people started it but not so many finished."