PARATROOPERS were pelted with petrol bombs and missiles during new riot training.

Soldiers from Colchester were taught how to deal with hostile crowds - skills which could be used at home or abroad.

Troops from the town make up the nation’s emergency rapid response force and could be sent anywhere in the world to deal with problems.

But the training could also be useful within the UK to deal with any future riots and during the London Olympics - with soldiers from Colchester expected to provide support for the Games.

See the full story and pictures in Monday's Gazette.