Olympic duty for TA soldier

He was one of hundreds of TA soldiers from across the province who helped ensure that the greatest show on earth has gone off without a hitch.

Private Lyness of 152 Transport Regiment RLC, has been helping provide around-the-clock security at the Eton Dorney site where Olympians have rowed themselves to the point of exhaustion in the quest for medals.

Elliot, who is currently a student, joined the TA in 2010 and will soon obtain his license to drive the large ‘drop’ vehicles used by the army to move the large pieces of equipment and kit it needs on operations.

The Lurgan man has some great memories of the games and even though he and his colleagues often worked 12-hour-days, during his down time he has taken trips into London and spent time at the main Olympic Park at Stratford.

“It’s been a great experience,” he said.

“The park was tremendous.

“It was so busy with so many people about and the atmosphere between the soldiers and the general public was great,” he added.

Elliot and colleagues have been staying in Victoria Barracks Windsor. The town, which is dominated by Windsor Castle, is usually the home of the Coldstream Guards, but until September they will also house Elliot and his colleagues as they continue to provide vital support right through to the Paralympics Games.