THE Army has found itself locked in battle with protestors trying to prevent the Ministry of Defence (MoD) acquiring common land on North Pennine moors.

Farmers have been grazing sheep on the hills near Warcop, Cumbria, for centuries, co-operating with soldiers using the land for live firing exercises under a licence agreement.

However, recently, the ministry has decided that the needs of the Infantry Training Centre, at Catterick Garrison, mean the partnership is no longer viable.

Proceedings have started to secure a Compulsory Purchase Order, which would put control of the land in Army hands.

Hundreds have objected - and campaigners brought military manoeuvres to a halt by exercising their right to walk on the moors yesterday.

"They were in no danger, as the Army guards the tracks which lead into the area, and the protestors' names were taken as they walked on to the ranges, and checked again as they left - but the Army could still do nothing while they were on the land," said spokesman William Bashall.

"The protest will continue every day until we persuade the Army to come back to the table and start negotiating with us," he added.