Soldiers finally allowed to grow beards as British Army overturns century-old ban

Soldiers can finally grow beards while serving in the army in a historic rule change approved by the King. For the first time in 100 years full beards will be permitted in the British Army, bringing rules in line with the Royal Navy and the RAF. It comes after years of debate over facial hair rules with defence secretary Grant Shapps branding the century-old ban “ridiculous” last year. Chief of general staff General Sir Patrick Sanders is said to have made the decision after a review of serving and reservist officers showed an “overwhelming majority” felt the army needed to change its policy. Watch more on Independent TV: Click here to subscribe to The Independent: About The Independent: Making Change Happen. The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking newsbrand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. Connect with The Independent