GREEN Howard supporters have described the Government's intention to axe the battalion as a bitter blow.

The infantry unit is one of a number likely to be amalgamated into bigger regiments.

The merger could see the unit join with the Prince of Wales's Own from York and the Duke of Wellington's Regiment from Halifax.

Major Roger Chapman, spokesman for the Green Howards, said: "The Government intention to merge the county regiments is a bitter blow for the Green Howards, who are immensely proud of their distinctive and famous name.

"They have had a 315-year unbroken service for the Crown and been connected for over 220 with North Yorkshire and Teesside."

"The Green Howards, like other infantry regiments, is very concerned at the risk the Army is taking in reducing the number of infantry battalions at such a critical and dangerous time to the nation, when the infantry is already overstretched on so many fronts and is in such demand for its skills and adaptability."

A period of consultation will now be held within the Army.

"The regiment will be fully and positively engaged in responding to these proposed changes to the regimental system which has served this country so well.

"A final decision is not expected until later in the year. Until then any speculation about the cuts of four battalions will be an unhelpful distraction for the officers and men of the regiment who are currently serving on operations in Afghanistan," said Major Chapman.