Loic Le Gaillard

Age: 30

Occupation: Runs a series of businesses ranging from the sale of cosmetic products and toiletries to dealing in fine art

What made you join the Legion?
It started as a joke. My assistant saw an advert on the internet and sent in an application without telling me. When Channel 4 showed an interest in me I took it more seriously and thought it would be good to spend some time away from my business, especially as I love the desert.

What was good about the experience?
As a French guy, it was amazing to see the mix of British characters taking part in the programme. They were incredibly diverse. It was also fascinating to see some true military types at work.

What was bad about the experience?
It was more of a mental challenge than a physical one. At the end of the first week, I lost it for a while and it took me a while to realise that the aim of training is to try to make you lose it.

What did you learn from the experience?
Nothing. It was a one-off experience, unconnected to the rest of my life.

Any regrets?
No.

What would you do differently?
I wouldn’t do it again! The military environment seriously restricts what you can do and say.

What do you think of the Legion's approach to team-building?
I’ve had lots of debates about this with my friends. I think it’s an interesting technique to use with unmanageable people. I don’t regard myself as unmanageable!

Any advice for anyone thinking of joining the Legion?
Maybe I’d recommend it to somebody who’d gone seriously off the rails. Otherwise I’m violently against it.

Did you get a sense of achievement from taking part and has it lasted?
No – and no!

Terry Morton >