STUDENTS from Taunton have beaten a record for school teams tackling a Commando challenge.

A group of nine members of the King's College Royal Marines CCF (Combined Cadet Force) beat 18 other schools from across the country in the Sir Steuart Pringle Trophy Competition at the Royal Marines Training Centre, at Lympstone.

It was the eighth time in 13 years that King's had won, surpassing the previous record holder Pangbourne College. King's also become the first team to pass 1,000 points, with a total of 1,057.

The contest took place over two days, with the first day featuring physical challenges including a number of military stances such as a stretcher race, the assault course, modern urban combat and first aid at the centre and on Woodbury Common.

Day two involved a drill display, with King's judged "spectacular" by the inspecting instructor, followed by the Royal Marines' endurance course.

At the closing ceremony, King's was named winner of the section attack, endurance course, assault course, modern urban combat and map reading stances, enabling the team to claim first place overall following their previous win in March this year.

King’s College CCF Contingent Commander Major Steve King said: “The team are of course elated.

"This is a fantastic result. We have surpassed the all-time record of wins and it fully justifies the long and arduous build-up.

"I would like to make a special mention of Captain Pete Belfield for his dedication, drive, enthusiasm and quality of instruction when training the team.

"I'd also like to mention two members of the team who have taken part in this event twice this year - Josh C and Jake W. Very well done.”

The other team members were Alex K, Max E, Matt S-C, Peter B, Will C, George W, and Adam C.

They trained with early morning starts and late finishes and even gave up their free time to train outside lesson times.

The King’s College CCF is a voluntary organisation that aims to develop personal responsibility, leadership and self-discipline.

The CCF has a long tradition at King's with cadets spread among the Royal Navy, Royal Marine and Army sections and their Chindit Columns.