THE merger of two historic regiments in the region is likely to be confirmed within the next few weeks.

Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon will insist the shake-up must go ahead to cut waste and boost recruitment in the remaining 19 single-regiment battalions.

It is likely the Green Howards, in Richmond, will be joined with York's Prince of Wales's Own Regiment.

However, a merger of both with the Duke of Wellington's Regiment, in Bradford, to create a "super-Yorkshire" regiment of three battalions, is also possible.

An MoD source said stand-alone regiments were no longer acceptable.

Insisting they were not responsive to expeditionary operations, such as Iraq, the source said: "Single-battalion regiments really have to bite the bullet."

Four battalions are to be axed to reduce the total to 36. Three are expected to be in England and one in Scotland.

The 2,500 soldiers from the four disbanded battalions will be divided among the remaining 36, making them stronger.

All 36 surviving battalions would be available for action at all times. Currently, only about 27 regiments are on standby.