Bullying claim soldiers to return

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Two soldiers who claim repeated bullying in their barracks drove them to go absent without leave are expected to return later.

Pte Andre Treble and Pte Andrew Jones, both 22, fled Buckley Barracks near Hullavington, Wiltshire, two weeks ago.

They claimed the attacks - often referred to as "beastings" - were unbearable.

A spokesman for the MoD encouraged the men to return and said the allegations were being investigated.

The men, of 9 Regiment RLC, absconded after Pte Treble claimed he was beaten by three soldiers who then ransacked his room.

It is understood they met with an Army welfare officer on Wednesday and said they would return on Thursday.

The MoD spokesman said it would be inappropriate to comment on what was said during private negotiations with the two men.

But he said: "We would encourage them to return.

"They made some allegations and those allegations are under investigation.

"If they wish to make further allegations, the right thing to do is return so those allegations can be fully investigated."