A ROYAL Marine from Horrabridge has just received the coveted green beret after completing 28 weeks of the hardest military training in the world.
Mark Bassett, aged 20, will now go on to a period of advanced training for a further 21 weeks to become a Royal Marine Commando Officer.
Those who receive the green beret have passed a gruelling and physically demanding test of endurance, displaying the commando qualities of teamwork and cheerfulness under adversity.
Daniel said: 'Commando training is well known for its intensity, but everything we do is progressive which enables people with all standards of fitness to achieve the goal.
'It's been a fantastic experience for me and I've made some life-long friends among my fellow officers.'
Daniel said the sense of achievement he felt was 'immense' and was ready for any future challenges.
To pass the commando tests, Royal Marines must pass the endurance test, a one-and-a-half mile course cross country through tunnels and water hazards, followed by a four-mile run and a timed rifle shooting.
They must also complete a timed aerial assault course, a nine-mile speed march loaded with equipment and a timed 30-mile 'yomp' across Dartmoor.
l Pictured right: Royal Marine Mark Bassett of Horrabridge in deep water during a training session