A TERRITORIAL Army squadron that has been in Blackburn for 40 years is to be given a civic honour before being disbanded.

The 93 (East Lancashire) Signal Squadron, based in Canterbury Street, is to be axed in March after a costcutting review by Army bosses.

Since it was formed in October 1969 soldiers have been deployed in Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Tomorrow night Blackburn with Darwen council will recommend the squadron is given the Civic Medal, in recognition of its long association with the borough.

The medal has previously been given to Blackburn Rovers, Blackburn Music Society and people representing bodies like the Salvation Army and St John Ambulance.

It was last awarded in 2006 to the late long-serving councillor Frank Gorton.

If the councillors agree, a presentation ceremony will be held later in the month, including a parade by the squadron, ending with a civic reception for the soldiers.

There are at least 60 reservists, aged 17 to 55, based at Canterbury Street, and about six full-time staff.

But the 93 squadron will be disbanded as part of a reorganisation of the 38 Signal Regiment.

As wall as overseas tours, it has been called into domestic action including to help with the recent Cumbrian floods, the foot and mouth crisis and the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

The imminent closure means uncertainty surrounds the current barracks on Canterbury Street, which could be sold by Army bosses.