An 18-month campaign to attract women into Britain’s crack Commando unit attracted just one volunteer – and even she is believed to have failed the gruelling course.

Winning the right to have combat roles in the elite unit was celebrated as a triumph for equality.

Top brass offered volunteers a personalised training programme to ensure they were fully equipped to cope with the famous Green Beret endurance tests they would have to pass to take up arms alongside men in the Royal Marines.

A campaign to attract women into Britain’s crack Commando unit attracted just one volunteer

But only one woman sailor took up the offer, and Marine sources told The Mail on Sunday that she had struggled with the physical challenges.

The Ministry of Defence refused to confirm or deny this, but the bandswoman wrote about her experiences in the latest issue of the Marines’ magazine, The Globe And Laurel.

She said: ‘Three females within the Navy were approached to trial this programme, however, I was the only one to take part.

‘The course included a three-and-a-half-hour run and a two-and-a-half-hour serial on the bottom field [an assault course at the Royal Marines’ training base].

Marine sources told The Mail on Sunday that she had struggled with the physical challenges

‘I was assessed alongside [male] civilians, ensuring the high standards required to enter the Royal Marines were upheld.

‘While undoubtedly one of the most physically arduous challenges I have faced, it was a pleasure to be part of. I did well on all aspects of the course.

'I received nothing but support and admiration from all ranks at the Commando Training Centre.

'I wish any female attempting to enter the General Service the best of luck.’