A former north-east jail was commandeered by the armed forces yesterday as part of a recruitment exercise.
Enlisted men and women from the Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers set up camp at the Admiralty Gateway in the former HMP Grampian.
Their mission was to run Exercise Score in partnership with Peterhead-based engineering firm Score Group.
Across two days, 280 apprentices from the company took part in the programme which was designed to educate Score staff about opportunities within the reserve forces.
The apprentices were also given the chance to experience the tasks and team-building exercises involved in the training of enlisted personnel.
It followed the signing of an Armed Forces Covenant deal earlier this month between Score and the Ministry of Defence.
Major Andy Simpson, executive officer for 106 Battalion Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers, said: “This two-day programme has been an ideal opportunity to engage with a group of young engineers enrolled in Score’s vocational training programme.
“A high percentage of the work that Score is involved in mirrors the work carried out within our regiment. Score’s engineering cohort absolutely comprises the type of personnel we would seek to recruit.”
Major Simpson said the event was “mutually beneficial” for the regiment and Score. He added: “It has been a pleasure to work with a company so supportive of the Armed Reserve and what we are trying to do to benefit the community.”
As part of the exercise, apprentices donned the camouflage uniform used by the British armed forces and participated in a series of basic training and command tasks.
They also had the opportunity to use a range of weaponry and thermal imaging cameras. A number of apprentices have signed up for the reserve forces as a result of the event.
Last night, Score Europe’s managing director said: “Over the last two days we have encouraged our trainees to become involved with the Armed Forces Reserve and we will be flexible regarding whichever pathway they choose.
“We are proud of their positive reactions and are happy to confirm that 40 trainees have signed up with over 80 noting a further interest in the Armed Forces Reserve. This in itself will help secure the reserve provision locally for the benefit of all.”