THE 23 Pioneer Regiment has been part of Bicester’s fabric for 70 years, woven into the town’s culture as tightly as the ribbons on which their service medals hang.

Part of the Royal Logistic Corps, our brave soldiers have made such a difference – not just in conflict zones – but in our communities.

There were tears as the town waved a final goodbye to the regiment, in Bicester since 1941, which is now being disbanded in the wake of Army cuts.

They have served their local community with as much gusto and dignity as they have those in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Falklands.

Not only did the regiment build pipework under the Channel to send fuel to D-Day troops, its soldiers also dug local air raid shelters. It is a sad day to see them go, particularly as there have been redundancies made. We thank out troops for their loyal service, and wish all of our soldiers well in the future.