A TEENAGE paratrooper has been hailed champion recruit, after just six months training.

Graeme Finneran, 19, passed out of the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick with flying colours.

"We are very very proud of him," said his nan, Olga Pennington, of Palacefields, Runcorn. "He has worked really hard and has done very very well."

Former Frodsham High School pupil, Graeme, lived in Halton Village, Runcorn, until his parents, Diane and Stephen, moved to Newmarket four years ago.

He was one of 72 new recruits to start the combat course - only 19 passed out.

He received a trophy and tankard whilst his platoon was presented with a cup.

An army spokeswoman said: "Graeme proved himself to be a very determined, fit and capable individual. Despite stiff opposition from his peers, he was deemed to be the best recruit in his platoon and as a result of his hard work was awarded the prize of champion recruit."

Graeme is completing the final phase of his training, a basic parachuting course at RAF Brize Norton.

He will then join the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, due to serve in Basra, southern Iraq, later this month.

Graeme, said: "I had a hard but memorable six months. I am really looking forward to reaching my new battalion."