Essex MPs have vowed to fight any plans to cut the size of an army unit with strong historical links to Colchester.

Despite British troops being increasingly called into action around the world, fears have been raised that the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Anglian Regiment could soon be axed.

North Essex MP Bernard Jenkin and Colchester MP Bob Russell have both said they would oppose any cuts to the unit.

But a Ministry of Defence spokesman said nothing had been finalised and he was not aware of specific threats to the Royal Anglian Regiment.

The regiment was posted at Colchester Garrison until 1999 and hundreds of people from the area have served with it during its illustrious history.

Mr Jenkin, who is the shadow defence spokesman, said he expected the numbers of infantry in the army to be rearranged in a review by ministers later this year.

It was likely that regiments with second battalions would be the ones affected, he said, and the Royal Anglian's was a prime candidate.

Mr Jenkin said he would oppose any moves to trim the regiment, but so far he had not been reassured by the Government's reaction when he had raised the issue.

"I have put it to ministers and they have not denied it," he said. "There is a long history of the Royal Anglians and their connection with Colchester. It does make me sad."

Mr Russell said he was hoping to put a question to the Defence Secretary in the House of Commons to ask him to clarify exactly what were the plans for the regiment.

He said he had opposed cutbacks in the 1990s when the Royal Anglians lost their 3rd Battalion and would fight against any plans this time.

Published Monday, June 9, 2003

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