WE do not for a minute believe that the Army intended any offence by erecting models of “mosques” on its firing range at Catterick Garrison.

We view it as an attempt to create a training environment in keeping with the war zones in which soldiers may be expected to serve.

But, while we are acutely aware of the dangers of straying too far into the world of political correctness, we feel that, on this occasion, the Army is guilty of a naive misjudgement.

Success in the war on terror depends on winning hearts and minds across the Muslim community and this is an error which has created needless tension and controversy at a time which demands great sensitivity from all sides.

Care has to be taken to avoid creating divisions which may help radicalise young Muslims and make matters worse than they already are.

It was simply not a good idea to build structures with a green dome – symbols of an Islamic place of worship – as part of an Army firing range within sight of a public road.

There was no need to do it and the risk to public relations should have been anticipated.

That said, the Ministry of Defence should be given credit for reacting quickly once concerns were raised by Islamic organisations.

The MoD issued an immediate apology, sought a meeting with representatives from the Muslim community and began dismantling the offending structures last night.

We hope that apology is accepted and that important bridges of understanding continue to be built.