LORD Derby is backing a national drive to encourage forces personnel to wear uniforms in public.

The owner of Knowsley Safari Park is offering all serving military staff and volunteers in uniform free admission when accompanied by a full-fee paying adult.

The move is in response to recommendations in a report on improving the image of the Armed Forces.

The report was commissioned by Gordon Brown earlier this year, following a public outcry when it emerged that RAF personnel stationed near Peterborough had been ordered not to wear their uniforms off duty, after suffering verbal abuse from some members of the public.

As a result, senior commanders are believed to be encouraging them to wear their uniforms with pride in public, even when visiting bars and nightclubs.

In addition, it has been reported that attractions like football clubs, amusement parks and holiday companies will be asked to offer discounts to members of the armed forces. .

Lord Derby said: “As an ex-soldier myself ,I know from first-hand experience that our military personnel do a fantastic job, so it is absolutely right that they should wear their uniforms with pride in public and receive special concessions from leisure operators.

“When I read about the new Government report, I wanted us to be among the first to throw our hat into the ring in terms of offering free admission to the military at all times.”