A man with terrorist links tried to infiltrate Colchester Garrison, it has been claimed.

Reports in a national newspaper at the weekend claimed the Army base at Colchester was one of two to be targeted during the past few weeks by a breakaway terrorist group believed to be the Real IRA.

In the report a security source stated that a man with suspected terrorist links was identified and stopped before he could gain access to the Colchester base. It is believed this man had tried to get a job in the Army kitchens.

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "I don't think there is any great concern. There is nothing to back up the claims and we would not discuss any matter of security in great detail.

"We are fully aware of a whole range of risks at all times and we make sure we do everything to see things remain secure. Any arrest under the prevention of terrorism act would be a matter for the police."

Essex Police were not aware of any such arrests being made. Yesterday, an Army spokesman said: "I cannot confirm or deny this.

"We never discuss matters of security for obvious reasons. I cannot expand further than that."

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