A Teesside MP has presented a petition to Parliament against the abolition of a historic battalion which has firm roots in the North East and North Yorkshire.

The 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment, known as the Green Howards, was axed in July after a sweep of military budget cuts.

Formed in 1688 for service under William, Prince of Orange after a call for loyal men, the soldiers of the Green Howards have maintained that tradition of loyalty and bravery for more than 300 years.

And now Tom Blenkinsop, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, has taken his 500 signature petition to Whitehall to persuade the Government to re-think the decision to cut the Green Howards.

The Green Howards used to recruit widely across Teesside, and veterans have served in numerous conflicts including World Wars One and Two, the Gulf War, Bosnia and Afghanistan.

They were also home to war veteran Stan Hollis, the sole recipient of a Victoria Cross from D-Day.

Mr Blenkinsop said: “The reason I launched this petition was to highlight to the Coalition Government the strength of feeling that Teesside has for the Green Howards.

“The online petition also demonstrated how far and wide the Green Howards have an impact on.

“I hope the Government listens to the concerns of my constituents over this issue and reconsider their decision but I fear they will plough on regardless of the strength of feeling.

“At the very least we must ensure the dedication and bravery of our troops is recognised - and that means ensuring there is a job available for them.”