THE ARMY has around 100 Rastafarians serving in the Army who are allowed to wear full beards and dreadlocks.

Hundreds of pagan worshippers are also employed in defence of the country, Ministry of Defence figures have revealed.

The three services must take on people who identify themselves as practitioners of the ancient faiths.

Documents showed around 240 regulars and reservists are Rastas – made famous by musician Bob Marley – who worship Ja and believe smoking cannabis is a sacrament.

And 20 personnel said that they followed the wicca way of life.

Details about the beliefs of soldiers, sailors and airmen and women were obtained under the Freedom of Information Act.

Would-be recruits are told: “Soldiers can belong to any religion they want, as long as it is not illegal under civil law and is compatible with the Values and Standards of the Army.

“When you join, you'll be asked about your religion or other belief system, however soldiers are judged only by their actions.

“You can choose non-religious / humanists. This info will be shown on your identity discs.”

Paganism focuses on the worship of nature and its “vitality and spirituality” and finds its roots in the traditional religions of ancient Britain.

And pagans – who consider Stonehenge a place of pilgrimage – worship goddesses as well as gods and believe in the existence of spirits and other magical beings.

Under the Equality Act 2006 it is illegal for armed forces chiefs to discriminate on the grounds of someone's beliefs.

The Ministry of Defence said: “Wherever possible, we endeavour to give those who wish to do so the opportunity to practise their religious observances, provided their practice does not conflict with the Armed Forces' core values and standards.”

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