A HAMPSHIRE MP has called for the door to be opened for retired Gurkhas to join the Reserves.

Eastleigh MP Mike Thornton, pictured, is urging the Ministry of Defence to retain the Gurkhas’ skills by allowing them to join the Regular Reserves, in recognition of their service – and to lend their expertise.

He said: “Gurkhas are one of the most well-respected and revered parts of our Army. They deserve the opportunity to join the Reserves, as any other soldier would have, when they retire. For no particular reason, we don’t routinely recruit them into the Reserves.

“How better to build on the Gurkhas’ legacy in the Army than extending the same Reserve Liability as other soldiers receive, and offering them the possibility of a second Army career as a Reservist?

“We’ve got to strengthen our Reserves if the Army is to meet future security challenges. Here in Eastleigh we have a proud Gurkha tradition.

Gurkhas already contribute so much in their service to our country – the MoD must go further to retain their unique skills.”