Paratroopers in Colchester are on tenterhooks to see when they will be heading off to Afghanistan.
Soldiers from Meeanee Barracks, in Mersea Road, have been recalled from leave after their Christmas break.
A Ministry of Defence spokeswoman said: "They will be going, it just depends when it is. No decision will be taken until after the force contributors' conference tomorrow."
About 600 soldiers from 2 Para are likely to go. They are expected to be joined by support staff from 16 Air Assault Brigade.
Troops were put on 48 hours stand-by to go to the war-torn state in November, which was later reduced to five days' notice for the majority of 2 Para.
Many soldiers, facing the uncertainty of when they would be deployed, celebrated Christmas back in November. They tucked into a second festive dinner just days ago.
Published Thursday December 27, 2001
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