THIS band of brothers are looking to be the best after joining up at a tender age.

Some have only just completed their GCSEs but already they have mapped out their future by being the biggest group of 16 and 17-year-olds to join the Army on the same day.

An Army spokesman said: "Usually two or three youngsters join up, but 12 boys is incredibly high, I do not think we have had so many before."

Seven of the boys live in Warrington, two are from Widnes and three from Runcorn. The young recruits signed up at the Winmarleigh Street, Warrington, branch on Monday and will continue their education in the armed forces as well as training for their new positions.