TWO boys took command of a whole British Army unit yesterday, after winning a school competition.

Guy Lloyd, aged 11, from Abbey Gate School, in Hoole, Chester, won the competition to become commanding officer of the 33 Signal Regiment of the Territorial Army before his school broke up for summer.

He brought his best friend Ben Cross, 11, and his father along for the experience.

Ben was given the role of Regimental Sergeant Major for the day, and joined Guy in inspecting the troops at the Territorial Army’s Liverpool Road barracks, in Huyton.

The boys were given pint-sized uniforms before giving orders to the troops, and enjoyed a tour of the TA’s facilities. In the afternoon, Guy and Ben travelled to the regiment’s Crown Gate centre, in Runcorn, to eat military ration packs and undertake a mini military assault course.

Guy, who spoke after having completed the course said: "I’ve really enjoyed myself so far today, the assault course was great, I want to go round it again. We’ve done some cool stuff today like inspecting the troops, learning first aid and looking at different types of guns. I can’t wait to tell my mates about my day."

Captain Belinda Robson, the officer usually in charge of the 33 Signal Regiment said: "The boys have really enjoyed themselves today and they’re really proud to have come here after winning the competition. Guy bought 15 tickets from his school to make sure he won the competition so he obviously wanted to win this a lot."