A HUDDERSFIELD soldier has tackled one of the Army's toughest physical challenges.
Private Oliver Halstead - a Territorial Army soldier - battled harsh conditions in the Welsh mountains as part of Exercise Cambrian Patrol.
A total of 95 teams from the British Army, TA and foreign armies took part in the two-day challenge in phases between October 27 and November 5.
Oliver, 21, was on the challenge with the 4th Battalion of the Yorkshire Regiment.
Former Honley High School pupil Oliver said: "This was my first Cambrian. I heard it was tough but did extra training. We have walked a lot - all night, on and on! The lack of sleep was the worst bit.
"But I was looking forward to it because my job was lead scout for the team, which was really interesting.
Oliver, who is a graphic designer, joined the TA two years ago.
The patrol is the highlight of the Army's training calendar and sees soldiers struggling with a tough environment and extreme fatigue.
It was introduced 40 years ago, when a group of Welsh TA soldiers designed a two-day event involving long distance marches over the Cambrian mountains.
Eight-man teams have to march 55km, carrying full personal kit and additional equipment weighing up to 60lbs.
All the while, they are involved in a battle scenario against advancing 'enemy' patrols.
They must meet up with friendly agents en-route, tackle observation and reconnaissance challenges, shoot when under attack and undergo cold river crossings with no boats, carrying their full kit.
The soldiers win points for military skills, stamina and dedication shown along the way.
Teams that complete the patrol receive gold, silver or bronze medals or a certificate of merit, depending on how many points are gained.
A total of 95 teams from the Army, TA and the Royal Air Force took part in the event, alongside foreign Army teams from Canada, New Zealand, India, Denmark, France, Holland, the Czech Republic, Lativa and Lithuania.
Only 64 teams completed the exercise.
Four gold medals, 19 silver, 26 bronze and 15 certificates of merit were awarded.
The 4th Battalion Yorkshire Regiment team did not win an award this year.
