‘Grandad’ takes on tough patrol

Photo: Cpl Timothy Jones

Oldham soldier Derek Russell joins troops from around the world for gruelling Army test.

Army reservist Derek, 50: ‘Age is no barrier’

AGE was no barrier for a Saddleworth soldier who gave the younger troops a run for their money.

Craftsman Derek Russell (50), who serves with 101 Force Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, was part of an eight-man team taking part in Exercise Cambrian Patrol — one of the Army’s toughest tests.

The annual event, organised and run by 160th Infantry Brigade and Headquarters Wales, is both physically and mentally demanding and is a highlight in the Army’s training calendar.

“They call me grandad in the team because of my age,” said Derek, who runs his own drainage business and has been in the Reserves for three years and has completed a tour of Afghanistan.

“My attitude is that age is no barrier to anything and having a go at this is a good opportunity to show that.

“I did something similar to this exercise in the 1980s. It’s something that definitely tests your mettle.

“I can do all the things the younger lads can do but I might be a bit slower.

High

“But this was a new experience for most of the team. If you’re not aiming high then you shouldn’t be doing it.”

Internationally, Exercise Cambrian Patrol is regarded as one of the toughest tests the modern-day soldier can face. Some foreign entrants have to claim the right to take part by winning through their own domestic competition.

The exercise sees the teams required to cover over 50km carrying a 30kg pack in less than 48 hours.

This year’s event, which began at Cwrt y Gollen training camp, Crickhowell, Wales, saw international patrols from 21 countries take part.

Teams that successfully completed their mission were awarded a gold, silver or bronze medal or certificate of merit.


TOUGH task . . . Army reservist Derek Russell joined troops from around the world for the gruelling Exercise Cambrian Patrol