US National Guard moves to air bases

Soldiers from the United States National Guard will begin operating at the major US air bases in the UK from tomorrow as the countdown to war in Iraq continues.

The part-time soldiers have been moved to US bases in Britain for the first time to step up security as fear of terrorist attacks grows.

Around 100 National Guardsmen will begin work at the fighter station at Lakenheath, Suffolk.

A similar number will operate at the neighbouring tanker base at Mildenhall.

The US Air Force said the National Guard was being moved to its air bases around the world to increase security.