Rosie Wild: Paras welcome first woman after 'trailblazer' completes 'gruelling' course

A British soldier has been called a "trailblazer" after becoming the first woman to complete the "gruelling" Parachute Regiment entry course.

Captain Rosie Wild passed the five-day test which involved eight challenges, including carrying a 16kg (35lb) pack and a rifle over 20 miles (32km).

The 28-year-old also competed in a 60-second boxing match, which allows only attack and no defensive moves.

Brigadier John Clark, Commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade, said: "Women have been invited to undertake the gruelling P Company course since the mid-1990s.

"Several have attempted but Captain Wild is the first to pass. She is a trailblazer and we hope that her achievement will encourage other women to have a go.

"A more representative force will only make us stronger."

The All Arms Pre Parachute Selection (AAPPS) - known as the 'P Company' course - has been held at Catterick Garrison, in North Yorkshire, since the 1990s.

It is one of the most famous courses in military training and has to be passed by all recruits to the Parachute Regiment and related British Army units.

The Army said Capt Wild will not be joining the Parachute Regiment, but will be serving alongside the Paras in 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery.