Bruce George yesterday hosted a reception in Parliament for the Staffordshire Regiment, the Worcester and Foresters Regiment and the Cheshire Regiment, which combined form the recently created Mercian Regiment.

Staffordshire soldiers have been praised for their dedication and commitment to the Armed Forces at a special parliamentary reception hosted by the Walsall South MP.

Bruce was joined by a number of other MPs who welcomed a small party of officers, soldiers and their wives of the new Mercian Regiment to Westminster last night. The regiment was officially launched amid some controversy in September of last year. Its creation followed the amalgamation of The Staffordshire Regiment, The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment, The 22nd Cheshire Regiment and TA Battalions from across the area.

Mr George told the party many MPs fought the merger tooth-and-nail. But he continued: “We have to face reality and soldiers know how to make the best of the situation presented to them. I am sure the merger is functioning properly.

He commended the soldiers’ sacrifices, adding: “We are exceedingly fortunate to have the men and women who are in the British forces. They are a very dedicated group of people and it’s an honour to welcome the Regiment to the House of Commons.”

“For a long, long time we have held a reception for The Staffordshire Regiment, we will continue to do this with the Mercian Regiment as long as I am able to maintain this tradition.”

Brigadier Andrew Sharpe, Deputy Colonel of The Mercian Regiment, said: “It is extremely important for us that the people who represent our families and our soldiers stay in touch.”