Troops celebrate 50 years of BATUS – the Army's largest training ground

Celebrations are being held to mark 50 years of British troops training in Canada.

BATUS, the British Army Training Unit Suffield, is bigger than all of the other Army training areas combined.

UK troops have trained there since 1972.

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Lieutenant Colonel Tim Holmes, Commander, British Army Training Unit Suffield, said: "It's important, at this moment, to reflect on those experiences, both individually and collectively.

"It's also important to remember those service personnel who sadly didn't make it.

"It is also a moment to appreciate our Canadian hosts who have allowed us to train here for 50 years and supported us fantastically with their civilians and their serving personnel," he added.

Last year, questions were raised about the future of BATUS, but the Ministry of Defence (MOD) confirmed it is not earmarked for closure.

It says it has been changing how it is used, and still offers training for UK personnel.

Major John Dunne, British Army Training Unit Suffield, said: "I think the current conflict in Ukraine, more than any time in the last sort of 30 years, demonstrates clearly the importance of having that mechanised punch on the battlefield."