AN official opening ceremony has been staged for a new forces training base in Bury.

Mayor Cllr Trevor Holt was on hand to give the civic seal of approval for Evolve Military College's centre at Link House.

And the borough's first citizen also witnessed a passing-out parade for recruits for the Army as part of an open day there.

The college's new HQ has the capacity for 60 learners, which with their recently-opened site in Burnley, brings their capacity up to 140.

Managing director Andy Emmett said: "We are absolutely delighted with the success of our open event and extremely excited to be able to offer our course to more young people in Bury.

"All of the visitors on the day gave us hugely positive feedback, and we look forward to welcoming some new students very soon."

Those passing out will now move on to the Army Foundation College in Harrogate.

The Army, Navy and Royal Air Force were represented at the open day, alongside veterans, ex-military personnel and youth service teams.