Ministry of Defence training on Dartmoor is worth nearly £7m a year to the economy of West Devon, according to a new report.

Local councillors are now being asked to continue their support for a military presence within the Dartmoor National Park.

Low flying by military aircraft is extensive

Military training has taken place on Dartmoor for over 100 years. Nowadays, the MoD has access to a seventh of the moor - including the three firing ranges at Merrivale, Okehampton and Willsworthy.

But other training exercises, including low flying by military aircraft, are far more extensive in nature.

Conservationists argue that military training spoils the tranquility of the moor and restricts access.

The Dartmoor Preservation Association, in particular, has been critical of the army's continued use of the moor. There are also fears that military training damages the moorland.

Preservationists fear that military training is damaging Dartmoor

Despite those reservations, a recent government review concluded that Dartmoor was vital for military use.

And now a report by the Dartmoor Training Area Commandant suggests that the loss of military training would have a serious impact on the local economy. A report to West Devon councillors next week says that military training on Dartmoor is worth nearly 7m a year to the local economy.

The council is now being recommended to reaffirm its support for a continued MoD presence inside the national park.