Ministry of Defence's new warning for Aldershot area

This Easter, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued the warning for the Aldershot area, highlighting the growing importance of uninterrupted training for Armed Forces personnel.

The reality of operational service demands constant preparation, which includes year-round training across UK sites.

Ministry of Defence has launched the Respect the Range campaign. (Image: Ministry of Defence)

Lt Col Jens Gronn, defence training estate regional commander for the South East, said: "Military training areas are workplaces for our Armed Forces where they develop the vital skills they need to keep our nation safe.

"Modern military training relies on realism, continuity and controlled conditions.

"Interruptions can disrupt training, create safety risks and reduce unit readiness."

Recent tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have underscored the need for UK troops to remain ready for rapid deployment.

Training exercises prepare them to respond to threats, support allies and defend national interests at short notice.

Aldershot was selected as a focus of the campaign following repeated incidents of public intrusions that have caused training sessions to be stopped or cancelled.

The MOD is reminding the public in the Aldershot area to avoid interrupting military training. (Image: Ministry of Defence)

Lt Col Gronn said: "Respecting access restrictions directly supports Armed Forces effectiveness and national defence so it’s more important than ever that training exercises can proceed without disruption.

"We welcome responsible public access but ask visitors to respect this critical training and steer clear of any military activity for everyone’s safety."

The MoD’s Respect the Range campaign features striking imagery to raise awareness of the dangers of public interference in military exercises and the importance of protecting these training environments.

The MoD reminds the public that access is only permitted in certain areas and at certain times.

Visitors are urged to stay on marked public paths, check firing schedules, and obey all warning signs, red flags, and lights indicating live exercises.

For more information, visit gov.uk/guidance/safe-access.