AN ARMY major has been called up for service in Iraq by a whisker.

Preston soldier Major Peter Quegan, has snipped off his trademark moustache of 20 years to go to Iraq as a member of the Territorial Army.

The solicitor and former South Ribble councillor has sported his curly tash for years. But, due to army regulations, the scissors had to come out in case he needs to use a protective face mask.

Major Quegan, of the Lancastrian and Cumbrian Volunteers' (LCV) D Company, decided to get rid of his facial accessory as soon as he knew he was being called up about a week ago.

He said: "I have cut most of it off now and most of it has gone. Enough, I think, to satisfy army requirements!

"It was strange because I have had it for so long but it was necessary.

"Being stationed in Iraq will certainly be interesting and I'm pleased to be going out there."

Major Quegan, who lives with wife Nicola and their two-year-old daughter, in New Longton, has been a member of the TA for 13 years.

The couple are so proud of the major's voluntary army career that they even named their daughter Kimberley after the barracks in Deepdale where his TA company meet -- which takes its name from a Boer War battle.

"That was, of course, a joint decision," said Major Quegan.

"I wouldn't say she's specifically named after the Boer War battle but it's not entirely a coincidence that it's the same name as the barracks.

"My wife is incredibly supportive about time I spend with the TA but is obviously apprehensive about me going to Iraq."

During his army career Major Quegan has travelled to Hungary, Germany and Gibraltar but has so far not been involved in any conflicts.

He is the only TA major travelling to Iraq and will be accompanied by three junior officers, two infantry platoons, one machine gun platoon and drivers.