The regiment has won awards for its efforts in the Balkans

Members of the King's Own Royal Border Regiment (KORBR) said they have been singled out for possible disbandment.

Now they have launched a campaign to tell government ministers why Cumbria cannot do without its only regiment.

The regiment was named with several others in November 2003 as facing cuts or disbandment under government cutbacks.

The historic infantry unit is likely to find out on Wednesday whether it is to be disbanded.

Support for the campaign has been sought from MPs, Euro MPs and councils in the regiment's Cumbria and Lancashire recruiting area.

Approaches have also been made to the Ministry of Defence, arguing the case for keeping the regiment in the British Army.

Among the authorities that have promised support is Allerdale Borough Council.

'Special factor'

One of its members, retired Brig Joe Milburn who was the commanding officer of the regiment from 1975 to 1978, said: "The regiment has a special place in the hearts of Cumbrians.

"The regiment has twice won the Wilkinson Sword of Peace for service in the Balkans and in Northern Ireland."

The regiment's Col Simon Strickland added: "Cumbria has no army at all other than us.

"Indeed there are no regular army barracks anywhere near us.

"So we are the link and that is a special factor."

Tony Goddard, of the KORBR museum, added: "The regiment and its predecessors have been in existence for more than 300 years.

"It has served in every major conflict since 1680.

"The regiment has successfully recruited throughout Cumbria for over 200 years."

The MoD says it will make further details known about the affected regiments on 21 July.