I AM disgusted at Mr Hoon's plans to amalgamate the Queen's Lancashire Regiment. I am totally against the proposal.

My father fought three campaigns and did six tours of Northern Ireland. He joined as a schoolboy aged 15 and passed out at 18 in 1974. He only retired two years ago due to age. He won six medals and they are now buried with his dad.

His grandad also fought in the East Lancs Regiment during the Second World War. he also won medals and died of old age in the 1980s.

These are only two personal stories that I know about.

The QLR has a long proud history of fighting various campaigns and battles. I agree the nature of war has changed and will carry on changing with the 21st century but there will be a need for such regiments especially in today climate re: Iran, Iraq etc.

Who is going to defend this country in a ground war? What happens if there is an incident like 9/11? Who is going to defend against terrorism?

The Army teaches discipline and gives a person a sense of purpose and direction in life.

By exterminating the QLR Mr Hoon would be eradicating not only my father's service to this country and his grandfather's and every other person who fought and are fighting to keep this country safe.

I for one won't tolerate that and if needs be I will fight Mr Hoon and his government all the way to the European Court of Human Rights in Brussels.

JANETTE WILLIAMS, Mosley Street, Blackburn.