SOLDIERS who are about to be sent out to the world’s trouble spots are training for the job at Shoebury ranges.

Army bosses have confirmed the ranges will be noiser than usual while the vital training takes place over the next three days.

Defence Minister Kevan Jones has authorised three days of training for the 49 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron.

This will involve creating scenarios the squadron is likely to face disposing of munitions and explosives in countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

The training for soldiers prior to their imminent departure from the UK starts today and will last until Thursday.

Nicki Uden, community liaison officer for Qinetiq, which runs the MoD ranges site, said: “It is critical the squadron receives the training before leaving the UK.

“It is for this reason the minister has given special dispensation for Shoebury to potentially exceed its strict noise limits for the period of the training.

“In normal circumstances, Qinetiq operates the site under a self-imposed noise limit of 125 decibels.

“Acoustic forecasting plays a big part in planning activity on the ranges and this will still apply during the training.

“No activity will take place before 9am each day and it will not exceed the statutory limit of 140 decibels.”

Miss Uden added: “While Qinetiq apologises in advance for any potential inconvenience caused, this training is critical to enable the squadron to perform its duties to safely detonate or dispose of explosives which could injure or kill troops and civilians.”