AN army battalion from the region celebrates its own golden jubilee this year.

The 2nd Battalion The Green Howards is commemorating its 50th anniversary on April 3 and hopes to attract old comrades to the event.

The battalion, which dates back to 1689, was reformed in the first few months of the Queen's reign in 1952, in response to a shortage of infantry.

It then trained intensively for a year at Barnard Castle, County Durham. Most of the battalion was recruited from the Teesside and North Yorkshire areas.

During the past 50 years, the Green Howards have seen service in the Suez Canal crisis and Cyprus.

In 1997, comrades formed the 2nd Battalion Branch of the Green Howards Regimental Association.

Having decided to celebrate the 50th anniversary, they are keen to trace people who may not be aware of the celebrations.

The main function, to which all former members and friends are invited, will be held on Saturday, April 6, at the Blackwell Grange Hotel, Darlington.

Plans include a display of photographs and artefacts dating from 1952, which will also be included in a display in Richmond Town Hall, on Richmond Sunday weekend, May 18 and 19.

Two re-enactment societies will form part of the celebrations over the May weekend, depicting the uniforms, arms and drill of the battalion since its formation more than 300 years ago.

People wanting to find out more are asked to call (01609) 773678, or (01642) 617702.