AFTER disappearing from the radar for almost two months, the wonderful topic of which MPs should glow with the greater pride about the exploits of the SAS had made a comeback.

And quite welcome it is, too.

Regular readers will remember the argument appeared to have been settled in favour of Leominster's Bill Wiggin.

The crack-regiment had formerly been based in Paul Keetch's Hereford constituency.

But a couple of years ago they moved to Credenhill which is on the other side of the constituency boundary.

The Leominster MP pointed this out in a Commons debate in September this year and his opposite number was forced to hold up his hands that the SAS had packed up and gone even if he did accuse Mr Wiggin of being "silly" to raise the matter.

However, it seems Mr Keetch has not let go altogether. And this week it was his name to be found at the top of a list of MPs congratulating the SAS on its 60th birthday.

Mr Wiggin, for the record, was second.

This, in itself, is not that significant. It is just the order the names happen to appear on the early day motion.

But Mr Keetch's comments are rather more illuminating.

He said: The regiment was based for most of its history in Hereford and still retains the Freedom of the City.

Many of its present and past members live in the city and county of Herefordshire and we are proud to continue this link.

The regiment has a very special place in the affections of the people of Herefordshire.

Gone from his patch then, but certainly not forgotten.

Meanwhile, the motion raises another interesting point. Most of the time, protocol prevents MPs from ever muttering the words SAS.

But it seems an exception can be made for the event of its 60th birthday.

Let's just hope no one who hasn't already heard about the legendary regiment notices the mention.