THE presence of the armed forces in York stretches back hundreds of years.

As the armed forces champion on the council, I know from many conversations with military and civilian personnel the huge contribution that the armed forces in our city make.

I’m therefore pleased that councillors across party lines have agreed that we should be taking a firm stance and opposing the planned closures of Imphal and Strensall barracks.

Liberal Democrat councillors want to work with other political groups in York so that we all speak with one voice.

I have already written to Sir Michael Fallon, Secretary of State for Defence, to make representations on the issue and express concern about the closures.

There are many questions still unanswered, both for the future of the jobs directly and indirectly associated with the barracks and on what the impact will be for the local economy.

I urge the MoD to listen and not to sever this historic bond between the city and our armed forces communities.

If any residents and/or members of the armed forces in my ward have any concerns, I encourage them to get in touch and I will pass anything on.

Cllr Keith Aspden, Lib Dem councillor for Fulford and Heslington, Fulford, York