A THURROCK teenager is set to guard the Queen after passing out in one of the British Army's toughest regiments.

Simon Williams, 18, of St George's Avenue, Grays trained for ten months to achieve his dream as a Squadron trumpeter and Mounted Dutyman in the Household Cavalry.

Proud mum Helen Williams, 46, said: "He has always wanted to be in the British Army ever since he was at the age of 11."

Simon attended Herd Lane Primary and Gable Hall School in Corringham.

Helen, and dad Mark, 47, are proud of their son's achievement and believe he will get a great deal out of the experience.

Helen said: "When Simon was 11 he and I went to see a Royal Lifeguard band show.

"When the band had finished, Simon went over to speak to them to ask them what they do and how they became who they are today. He was amazed by their replies so he decided as his dream goal to become a Squadron trumpeter."

Simon Williams passed out as a Squadron trumpeter after starting his training in January at the age of 17 in Elford, Staffordshire, with an intelligence test. He then took a two day course, including running a mile and a half in 10 minutes.

A month later he had three months of training at Pirbright before heading to Windsor to learn how to ride a horse.

Helen added: "I'm hugely proud of him. He works 21 hours per day to get his routines right and he has raised thousands for charity.

"The next big thing that's going to happen with Simon is escorting royal quests, guarding her Royal Majesty and he may have to go to the state opening of Parliament."