Navy

Tom Hardy Put Through Paces By 45 Commando

Hollywood star Tom Hardy has had his fitness put to the test by 45 Commando Royal Marines.

The actor, who's starred in films including Black Hawk Down, Bronson, Inception, The Dark Knight Rises, and most recently, Mad Max: Fury Road, is an honorary member of the Royal Marines Corps.

He was invited to RM Condor, Arbroath, to take part in a series of physical challenges which form part of the Marines' training, and was also given a full demonstration of the weapons systems the unit has at its disposal.

Major Giles Duncan, the second-in-command at 45 Commando, said:

“Tom was hugely impressed by our Royal Marines and told me he was humbled by what the lads did.

"He confided that had he not become an actor, he would have liked to have been a Marine.”

Mr Hardy was able to gain some hands-on experience of the unit’s sniper rifle before being presented with a unique hand-turned wooden replica Fairbairn-Sykes Commando Dagger on his departure.

He also received a tour of Woodlands Garden, which was opened in 2011 and is a site of remembrance to honour all those that have lost their lives while serving at 45 Commando since 1971.

Sergeant Kev Bowie Royal Marines, the unit’s physical training instructor, said:

“All at 45 Commando hope that Tom enjoyed his short but eventful stay at RM Condor.

"The mighty-45 have put him through his paces over the past 48 hours. He understands our ethos and corps values and has an insight into what is required to wear the coveted Green Beret.”