WARRINGTON'S barracks is opening its doors to the public this weekend as part of a national campaign to raise awareness of the Territorial Army.

Soldiers and officers in the 5/8 King's Regiment, based at the Peninsula Barracks, will be demonstrating the modern equipment used by the TA and highlighting the changes in the roles and activities undertaken by soldiers.

As reported in last week's GUARDIAN, the barracks is waiting for an announcement regarding its future. There were fears that it could close and that operations would be moved to Chester, but Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel David Richardson was hopeful that the barracks would have a future in the town.

Lt Col Richardson says the latest 'Open Door' initiative will inform the public about the TA's changing role: "Last year's strategic defence review redefined the role and the status of the TA.

"We have created a more usable and better-equipped organisation which will increasingly be required to deploy with regular soldiers as a wholly integrated force.

"The role of the volunteer will be more demanding but will also be more rewarding with wider opportunities for operational service."

The barracks will be open tomorrow, Saturday, from 10.30am to 3.30pm. For more information call 636519.

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