17 British army instructors charged with assaulting teenage recruits

A number of British Army instructors have been charged with assaulting teenage army recruits at an army camp in Scotland.

It is believed to be the biggest ever abuse to engulf the forces with a reported cost of around 1.1 million euros.

The accused face 40 charges of battery, ill-treatment and actual bodily harm, although they all deny any wrongdoing.

It is believed that the abuse had taken place at a battle camp near the town of Kircudbright, Scotland.

The six alleged victims who were 17 at the time claim they were punched and kicked, had their heads pushed under water and animal excrement smeared over their faces and into their mouths.

In a statement, the British Army said seventeen former recruit instructors have been charged and will face court martial proceedings in September.