HUNDREDS of British troops stationed in Germany could be relocated to a huge new military base in Bicester, under plans being considered by the Ministry of Defence.

The town is one of three sites shortlisted by officials searching for a new home for two brigades which are part of the British Army of the Rhine, formed to help defend Western Europe in the event of an invasion by the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

The MoD is considering bringing back to the UK a "sizeable number" of the 22,500 soldiers based in Germany to reduce costs and problems caused by so many military families being based abroad.

The idea of building a new "super-garrison" in or around Bicester has been championed by Banbury MP Tony Baldry, who believes the town would be an ideal location for a large base.

An MoD spokesman yesterday said Bicester was in the running to receive units from 1 Signal Brigade, which provides command and communications support, and 102 Logistic Brigade, which helps prepare land troops for deployment.

The other sites under consideration are RAF Cosford, in Shropshire, and RAF Stafford.

A decision is expected by the end of the year.