Soldiers in fancy dress launched a dash for freedom today during a mock jailbreak.

The wacky stunt, organised by troops from 210 Signal Squadron, aims to boost the coffers of the Army Benevolent Fund.

Fifteen soldiers broke out of the Goojerat Barracks guardroom at 8am and will spend the next 24 hours getting as far away as possible from Colchester Garrison.

They must return tomorrow morning with proof of how far they have travelled.

Cpl Paul Kirk, who helped organise the fundraising feat, said: "They will have to use their initiative.

"They have been encouraged to travel as far as they can within the UK but they will not have any money to spend on transport."

The soldiers hope to raise at least several hundred pounds, and will be collecting cash from the public on their travels.

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