REDDITCH army reservist Nick Marshall hit the heights after taking part in two weeks of adventurous exercises in California.

Signaller Nick, a member of the 37th Signal Regiment based at Moons Moat, had to complete a minimum of 25 free-fall jumps from heights ranging from 5,500 to 13,000 feet.

He also had to perform a number of specialist manoeuvres for good measure to obtain his British Parachute Association A license.

It means Nick can now jump solo from anywhere in the world.

Speaking afterwards he said: "It was without doubt the best experience I have ever had. The learning curve was steep, but the training was second to none. California provided us with consistent superb weather to train in.

"It couldn't have been any better."

Taking part in adventurous training is an integral part of military training which helps individuals to withstand the rigours of operations.

In the past 12 months alone, members from the 37th Signal Regiment have been involved in numerous exercises ranging from skiing and snowboarding expeditions to Germany, scuba diving in Cyprus to mountaineering in Morocco.

Sgt Russ Taylor, from the reserve centre, added: "The training opportunities on offer to our reservists are growing year by year. It's fantastic to see our soldiers gain so many new skills and qualifications.

"The regiment is made up of part time soldiers who train in their spare time in order to provide support to operations in the UK and overseas.

"Reservists are paid for attending any training they undertake and also gain an annual tax free bounty for meeting a minimum training commitment of 27 days."