march to the top of a military drill class.

Sergeant Major Sherwin Richardson and Sergeant Gavin Lee entered separate prestigious courses in the UK -- and both took top honours.

More than 40 soldiers from British regiments, the Ulster Defence Regiment, and Arabian countries took part in the all-arms drill courses in Pirbright, Surrey.

Sgt Major Richardson, 38, from Devonshire, took the six week intensive class, which included sword drills, in late October and was rated top soldier.

Sgt Lee, 25, also from Devonshire, took a two week course and he too led the field.

Lieutenant Colonel David Burch, a Government Senator and former commanding officer of the Regiment, paid tribute to both soldiers.

He said it showed troops from a part-time regiment could compete successfully with full-time regiments from around the world, and it should serve as a "shining example'' to young people.

Both men were rewarded by leading the parade at the end of the courses and are now qualified drill instructors.

Regiment Adjutant Major Eddie Lamb said Regiment soldiers always performed well, although he could not recall when a Bermudian soldier last topped the class.

He said: "I am not surprised. The Bermuda Regiment has a very high standard of drill throughout the ranks and our instructors are full prepared and always keen and eager to perform well.

"I am extremely proud of the accomplishments of our soldiers at classes overseas. There is a very systematic and methodical preparation stage before the courses.