Family Tribute To Army Recruit Who Died Training

A female recruit at the Pirbright Army Training Centre (ATC) who died while undergoing initial training has been named.

Megan Park, who was 21, is believed to have collapsed while taking part in physical exercise, thought to have been a timed run of a mile and a half.

Ms Park's family have released a statement: "It is with deepest regret that Megan's family must announce that she has sadly passed on, doing the thing she loved."

"Ever since Megan was at school, she always wanted to be in the Armed Forces. Everybody who knew Megan was aware of this. She was so excited about going. It was the start of her dream job.

"Megan is going to be missed by so many people, friends and colleagues. Although she will be deeply missed, her presence will always be alive.

"Megan will always go on in people's memories for her lively sense of humour and her fun sarcasm and quirky personality."

Yesterday an Army spokesperson said: "We can confirm that a recruit has died while undergoing initial training at the Army Training Centre (ATC) Pirbright.

"The incident is being investigated and it would not be appropriate to comment further at this time. We offer our condolences to the family and ask that you respect their privacy while they come to terms with their sudden loss."

Thirty miles west of London, the Surrey base delivers Phase 1 training for a number of regiments.

All adult recruits must complete a "challenging and demanding" 14-week Common Military Syllabus training course when they join the British Army.

Designed to develop individual and team skills, it concentrates on building fitness, fieldcraft and operational shooting. 

Picture: MoD/PA