IT was a big day for Taunton Reservist James Spencer when he was presented with the coveted green beret from the second-in-command of all Royal Marines - who just happened to be his dad.

As well as a handshake, James, aged 22, also received a hug from Brigadier Richard Spencer, Deputy Commandant General, Royal Marines.

The ceremony took place in a Dartmoor woodland clearing moments after James and other members of the Royal Marines Reserve completed the final test for would-be Commandos - a 30-mile yomp carrying a weapon and 30lbs of kit in under eight hours.

Previously, James had battled through a tough fortnight also comprising a field exercise; a nine-mile speed march inside 90 minutes carrying full fighting order; a six-mile endurance course through rough terrain including tunnels, wading pool and an underwater culvert, followed by a four-mile run home and marksmanship test; a ‘Tarzan’ assault course, ending in a rope climb up a 30ft near-vertical wall in full kit.

James, a former student at Queen’s College, Taunton, and Taunton School, serves in the Royal Marines Reserve unit based in Bristol, having just completed his final year studying sports science at Gloucestershire University.

He said the final challenges were the toughest thing he's ever done, but referring to crossing the finish line he added: "It meant crossing a bridge that I've imagined myself doing for the last five years or so.

"It’s an iconic moment that every Royal Marine looks forward to – and receiving the award from my father meant the experience was a good as you can make it."

Brig Spencer, who ran the last 12 miles of the 30-mile yomp, won his own green beret 35 years ago.