SIX blind and partially sighted students put their disability to one side - to drive a tank.

The youngsters, who study at Hereford's Royal National College for the Blind, got to grips with an RCM 748 Tracked Rapier at Tank School near Usk yesterday.

And instructor Alastair Scott said they handled the enormous machine better than many sighted visitors.

Mr Scott, who has run the attraction for eight years, explained: "This is the third year we have welcomed students from the College and we are very proud and pleased to support them in an activity they would not be able to do elsewhere.

"They were very good tank drivers - they really made an effort to feel the machine moving and listened carefully to all instructions given.

"It was very rewarding to see the enjoyment and pleasure these students took from the day."

The tank is one of six used at the Tank School, and was formerly used by the RAF Regiment for air defence.

The attraction is located in Little Trostrey, near Kemeys Commander.