A MORETON-In-Marsh woman has passed out of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst alongside Prince William after completed the gruelling 44-week course to become an army officer.

Second Lieutenant Rebecca Hewlett, aged 24, took part in the Sovereign's Parade in the company of her Majesty the Queen and other members of the royal family.

Five years after leaving Dean Close School in Cheltenham, Rebecca (pictured) was commissioned by the RMAS after an enduring year at the toughest leadership academy in the world.

She has spent the last year digging trenches, riot training, fighting in built up areas and learning about nuclear, biological and chemical warfare. All while suffering lack of sleep.

"I never thought I would be able to function on three hours of sleep in a week," said Rebecca. "It's amazing what you can do when you push your - self."

She will now join the Royal Regiment of Artillery to continue training on a young officers' course and could be on an operational tour in Iraq or Afghanistan within six months.

"I have had a fantastic year and made some good friends," said Rebecca."I'll be sad to leave but can't wait to join my regiment."