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Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson is set to visit Taunton's 40 Commando as Rebecca Pow continues to fight to save the military base.

The Conservative Government previously announced plans in 2016 to close the Norton Manor Camp by 2028.

The 40 Commando, which celebrated 35 years at their base with a parade earlier last year, would relocate to another site in the South West.

Pow and other politicians in the area have campaigned to save the Norton Fitzwarren military base while Liberal Democrat spokesman, Gideon Amos, launched a petition.

(Image: Getty Images)

Gavin Williamson confirmed in October 2018 clarified the Somerset base will close in 2028 but not before 2028.

The Secretary of State is scheduled to visit the newly redeveloped UK Hydrographic Office and 40 Commando on Friday (February 8).

In response to the news, Rebecca Pow tweeted: "Delighted to have secured a visit by the Secretary of State Gavin Williamson to UKHO and 40 Commando on Friday.

"I look forward to welcoming him and showcasing the importance of these two sites."

The visit is the next step in the Taunton Deane MP's bid to save the Norton Manor Camp. Pow previously invited Gavin Williamson to visit the county town last year.

She said: "I have invited the secretary of state, Gavin Williamson, down to Taunton to come to 40 Commando at Norton Manor to see the place for himself.

"We can really convince him to see how professional those marines are, we already know that, how much investment has already gone on at the camp and to convey to him how important they are to the wider community in Taunton."

(Image: LA/AJ Macleod Wire)

Gavin Williamson previously called Mrs Pow a "great advocate" for 40 Commando and recognised the military unit has a "deep-rooted history within the local community."

He said: "I understand the strength of feeling regarding the relocation of military units which have a deep-rooted history within the local community.

"I can confirm that the intent, announced in Parliament in November 2016, is for 40 Commando Royal Marines to remain at Norton Manor Camp until 2028.

"I can also confirm that 40 Commando Royal Marines will remain in the South West in the long term."

He added the Navy Command has led "significant work" to identify the "optimal future location" of 40 Commando, Royal Marines.

Do you have a Taunton or West Somerset story to share? Email me at michael.taylor@reachplc.com or call 01935 709742.

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