AN army reservist from Bromsgrove will wind up his military service this week after a career spanning almost four decades.

Sgt Mark Troth, from Charford, joined what was then the Territorial Army aged 17 in 1981.

During 38 years as an army reservist, Sgt Troth has deployed on operations to Iraq in a combat role and to Cyprus as part of a UN peacekeeping force.

He has also taken part in military exercises in Kenya and Croatia.

Mark has helped to train and mentor hundreds of army reservists throughout his career.

Over the last five years he has worked as a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear warfare instructor and physical training instructor for three and a half days a week at the army’s reserve centre in Kidderminster, the home of 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment HQ Company,

Mark said: “I am particularly proudly of helping so many young recruits, who had little or no experience of the army when they first joined The Mercian Regiment, gain skills for life and be ready to serve their country with absolute commitment and integrity.

“It has also been fantastic to see so many of these recruits rise through the ranks and on to commissioned service.”

Sgt Troth’s long and loyal service was marked with a special presentation ceremony where he was presented with a bespoke framed memento and a coveted Commanding Officer’s Coin.

Major Nigel Bradley, Officer Commanding 4 Mercian Eagle Company, said: "I can only admire and appreciate Sergeant Troth's long service and dedication. He will be missed by all at 4 Mercian but we wish him the very best for the future in whatever challenge he chooses to take on."

Married to Sue for 19 years, Mark has five children and six grandchildren.

When he leaves the Army on his 55th birthday this Friday (February 8) he plans to spend more time with family and doing some part time driving to keep busy.