A HAMPSHIRE soldier has been handed an historic military honour after being named the top student at his regiment.

Stephan Harris, from Bishopstoke, has been presented with a 90-year-old silver stick to reward him for his hard work at the King’s Royal Hussars.

Lance Corporal Harris received the prestigious “Whip Mounter’s Stick” after coming out top in tests for fitness, leadership and basic infantry skills in the Junior Non-Commissioned Officers’ Cadre.

The Stirling silver item was commissioned in Birmingham in 1922 and was used as a trophy for “victorious men” in the past before becoming a prize for top students.

The 24-year-old, from Harvey Road, has already completed one tour of Afghanistan, having joined the army in 2009.

He said of receiving the award: “I could not believe it and did not realise it was such a big thing until they told me. All the previous recipients have gone on to achieve big things in the regiment.

“My mum is very proud and has been telling all her friends.

“When I was at school there were people saying I would not amount to much. Now I have come in to the army, I have really come on.

“It’s great to actually get something of such value for the hard work we have to put in – I'm just sorry I can’t keep it.”