EAST Lancashire MP Antony Higginbotham has joined up as a part–time soldier.

The Burnley Tory has volunteered for the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme.

Mr Higginbotham has opted for the army for his first 12–month attachment during which he has to spend at least 15 days in uniform.

Established 1989, the scheme provides military training to MPs, giving them a first-hand insight into military life not otherwise available to them. Mr Higginbotham has already attended a two–day introductory residential course organised by the UK’s Defence Academy.

He said: “Burnley has a long and proud connection to the armed forces which is evident from the number of veterans and serving personnel we have from the area. I’m therefore delighted to join thes cheme. Every year we see how much we rely on the armed forces, from their contribution to Covid-testing in the UK through to providing disaster recovery following hurricanes in the Caribbean. And on top of all of that they remain ready, 24/7, to respond to whatever challenges and threats we might face. I think it is only right that I take every opportunity to learn more about how the army functions and the contributions it makes.”