Crow Opinion: Cut the red tape

THERE are occasions when bureaucracy does seems to be ridiculous.

It has happened this week over the desire of the Royston branch of the Royal British Legion and Royston Town Council to recognise the role of the Royal Anglian Regiment in the war zones of Afghanistan and Iraq.

Because Royston is not recognised as a borough, then it cannot be allowed to give the Freedom of the Town to the regiment.

But it does not mean that the regiment cannot be recognised for the courage of the men and women who have served under dangerous conditions.

The occasion, too, would give our community the opportunity to pay respects to those who have been killed on active service.

There has to be a way of arranging some kind of parade which will demonstrate our support to those who are risking their lives each day in an effort to ensure that we remain secure in this country.

It is about time that we actually cut through red tape and were given the chance to show our appreciation.