More than 400 teenagers from schools across Sussex swapped their pencils for paintball guns as part of an Army roadshow.

Simon Barrett reports.

When you are a teenager, thinking about careers options can be daunting challenge.

And the Army's image is one that does not always appeal to youngsters so soldiers from several regiments visited Worthing Rugby Club as part of the Army Schools Challenge to show teenagers what life in the military is really about.

More than 400 teenagers from 24 Sussex schools left their books in the classroom while they were put through their paces by the troops.

The pupils, aged between 14 and 16, competed in several challenges designed to show the many aspects of a career in the Army.

Peter Robinson, year leader at Oathall Community College in Haywards Heath, said: "The day has been fantastic.

"It's important for pupils of this age to look at all the career options open to them, and this was a fun way of doing that.

"They all painted their faces with camouflage paint and were encouraging their friends through the activities, which was good to see."

The youngsters raced through inflatable assault courses, over trails of tyres and under scramble nets.

They also took on challenges of teamwork and ingenuity and were given the chance to fire laser shotguns.

At the sound of a klaxon horn each group moved from one activity to the next, interspersed with talks from each the regiments about the work involved.

Scott Whitwell, 15, of Kings Manor Community College in Shoreham, said: "I've really enjoyed myself.

"Firing the paintball guns at the targets was my favourite part.

"We also got to hear about being in the Army and it was interesting speaking to the soldiers."

Lance Corporal Johnson Beharry, who was awarded the Victoria Cross in 2005 after twice saving members of his unit from ambushes in Iraq, was also on hand to offer advice to the youngsters.

He said: "I've had a great time. A lot of the children recognised me and it was brilliant to witness their enthusiasm.

"The day is not about recruiting for the Army but more about showing them the fun side of life in the regiments."

Pupils from Bognor Regis Community College won first place in the series of challenges, with second place awarded to Boundstone Community College in Lancing. Angmering School, near Littlehampton, finished third.

To see our video report, click here.