Commando David Howarth is on standby to help out in the world's worst trouble spots.

David 26, from Canvey, is a member of X-Ray Company of 45 Commando, an elite Royal Marines Unit which is part of the UK's joint rapid reaction force.

In the last year, the men of X-Ray Company have served all around the world from arctic Norway to the jungles of Belize, Nicaragua and Honduras.

David said: "The great thing about the Royal Marines is that you never know where you might go next. Last year, we were jungle training in the Caribbean when Hurricane Mitch struck.

"A few days later, we were in Honduras and Nicaragua, providing emergency aid and food. This winter we were in the artic in Norway and now we are on Spearhead duty which means we could go anywhere in the world at only 24 hours notice."

Major Nigel Brown, X-Ray Company's commanding officer, said: "The Royal Marines pride themselves on being able to operate in any conditions from arctic to jungle and from desert to mountains.

"To achieve this we need to train all over the world to maintain our skills."

It is not yet known whether 45 Command will be sent to war-torn Kosovo but Major Brown said: "If called upon to do so, you can be assured there are none better trained than the Royal Marines."

David, whose mother Cecilia lives on Canvey, added: "I've been to some fantastic places and made some great mates along the way. To be honest I can't imagine a more interesting life."

X-Ray Company are training in the USA during May.

Anyone interested in joining the Marines should call 01345 300123.

Ready to go - David is whisked off to the world's hotspots with only a few hours notice

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