Report: SAS units under threat by new defence cuts
The SAS and other special forces units are under threat from a new round of Coalition defence cuts, reports The Telegraph.
The budget of the Ministry of Defence is to be cut. Credit: Press Assocation
The newspaper says senior commanders fear the quality of Britain’s world-class special forces could be undermined if defence spending is cut again in 2015.
The potential threat has been discussed in Whitehall as the Ministry of Defence tries to fight off Treasury demands for more budget cuts, it is reported.
SAS sniper returns to work after firearm charge overturned
Sergeant Danny Nightingale has returned to work today after being released from jail last week.
Talking to BBC Breakfast, his wife Sally said he had been put back on the payroll but would now have to undergo tests regarding a brain injury which affected his memory.
The SAS sniper was released after having his conviction illegally possessing a pistol and ammunition overturned by three appeal judges.
Released SAS sniper enjoying first free weekend at home
SAS sniper Danny Nightingale is enjoying his first weekend at home after being released from jail following his appeal victory.
The 37-year-old received a hero's return as he arrived back at his home in Crewe late last night, with family and friends gathered alongside a large "Welcome Back" banner.
Sergeant Nightingale told reporters he would spend the weekend with his family before renewing the fight to clear his name.
Sgt Nightingale was originally given 18 months' military detention for illegally possessing a pistol and ammunition, before three appeal judges cut the term to a suspended 12 months on Thursday, prompting his release.
Nightingale will fight to get conviction overturned
SAS Sergeant Danny Nightingale, who was freed after having his 18-month sentence for illegally possessing a gun reduced on appeal, has told ITV News that he held onto the weapon for so long because of "the hectic pace of life."
He said: "I'd just brought my best friend home in a coffin. It was an emotional period."
SAS sniper Danny Nightingale has said he is determined to fight to clear his name. Reunited with his family after being sentenced to 18 months in prison for possessing an illegal firearm and ammunition, Danny said he wanted to continue to serve in the "the pinnacle of the British forces."
Freed SAS sniper Danny Nightingale Credit: ITV News
Freed SAS sniper Danny Nightingale told ITV News he was overwhelmed by the support he had received from the public. He said being away from his family, in particular his "amazing" wife Sally, was the hardest thing about his stay in prison. He said:
"The hardest thing was firstly, not being with the family, and then I am young, I am used to being outdoors, I am used to running around. It was hard being there and not being with my family. "
"Sally has been amazing in this, [...] she has been so courageous in how she has conducted herself, and the dignity in how she has done it has been great. The public's support has been very very humbling, it has been such a humbling experience."
Freed Nightingale says he 'could do I'm A Celebrity'
Freed SAS sniper Danny Nightingale also told The Sun he might put his jungle training to use on ITV reality show I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!, saying:
I could do I'm A Celebrity, I like eating bugs. But no one should have to eat the testicles of another living species. That's just wrong.
But he added that he will enjoy some home cooked meals in the mean time. He told the newspaper:
I’m going to savour my freedom, take the girls to school and enjoy Sal’s cooking.
Freed SAS sniper describes trauma of being locked up
Freed SAS sniper Danny Nightingale has said he feared for his family while jailed for illegally possessing a pistol. He told The Sun:
It was traumatic being locked up - it was like the shock of capture. I’ve been to far worse places but in those places I was outside and not confined. I’ve done a lot of things in my work, but this is the hardest because of the fear that it could rip my family apart.
But he revealed his joy upon finally being reunited with his wife Sally and daughters Mara and Alys.
Mara only said three words when she saw me - "Daddy you’re home" - but it meant the world. She doesn’t even say that much when I’ve been away on a six-month tour of duty.
It feels awesome to have my girls in my arms. Words can’t explain how I feel to be free and surrounded by my family again. I’m back with my wife and my daughters and that’s what counts. You can’t beat that feeling.
