ROYAL Marines from 40 Commando have had two VIP visitors during their training exercise in the Arctic Circle.

The Duke of Sussex donned the green beret for the first time in his role as Captain General of the Royal Marines as he joined the Norton Manor Camp-based troops in temperatures as low as minus 30degs C in Norway.

Somerset County Gazette:

Prince Harry checked out the Commando Helicopter Force and how they support Royal Marines during his trip to Royal Norwegian Air Force Station Bardufoss.

He also watched personnel complete outdoor ground training and was shown field tents and a Quincey shelter, a makeshift snow shelter used by elite forces.

Somerset County Gazette:

Colour Sergeant Gary Bell, an air crewman, said: "If you can operate in Norway and in these conditions, you can operate anywhere in the world.

"Exercise Clockwork is about ensuring our people have the skillset they need to support 3 Commando Brigade and defend NATO’s northern flank.

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"This is the harshest and toughest place to look after yourself and operate an aircraft so it really does make you ready for anything.

"During the Duke’s visit we were able to show we have those capabilities and the team were able to speak to him about how we achieve it."

Somerset County Gazette:

Somerset County Gazette:

Somerset County Gazette:

40 Commando also hosted Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson just days after he had toured their base in Norton Fitzwarren during a visit to Taunton.

Somerset County Gazette:

He even tried out the ice breaking drill, plunging into icy water - and was given a tot of rum to warm up afterwards.

Somerset County Gazette:

Somerset County Gazette: