NEWS that the Duke of Gloucester barracks at South Cerney are not at risk of closure has been welcomed.

Minister of state for the armed forces Andrew Robathan MP announced last week the base would not be one of many across the country merging or closing as part of government’s cost-saving measures.

Cotswold MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown last week described the announcement as "good news".

"South Cerney will benefit hugely from the continuation of a barracks in the area, as will all those service personnel stationed there as it provides long term stability for the families living in and around the barracks," he said. "The announcement confirms South Cerney’s future for 2017 and beyond."