A SOLDIER on the run has denied lying about abuse and says he will return to the Army.

Yesterday the Worcester News reported that the allegations of drug abuse, bullying and theft made by AWOL soldier Darren Pollock were false.

Major Bob Prophet, from headquarters at the former Norton Barracks, said the Royal Military Police had finished their investigation and that the 25-year-old's kit had not been stolen.

Instead he had sold it on the internet.

Mr Pollock, of Rainbow Hill, called the Worcester News and told us that the information was incorrect.

He said the official investigation into his claim should begin within the next 24 hours and he also revealed his plans to return to the Army.

Mr Pollock, who is still AWOL, denied selling his kit on ebay.

He said: "I don't know how to use a computer, let alone sell something on ebay. That was totally made up."

Mr Pollock admitted spurning the Army's original offer of return but said he will go back to the Army, as long he is not based near his old barracks.

He said: "I was offered the chance to go to Chelsea barracks but I said no, because I didn't feel I'd be safe there.

"It was too close to my old barracks in Hounslow."

Mr Pollock said a Major Forthsythe, who is dealing with his case, is helping him. He said: "She is sorting something out and, as for the investigation, it's not over. If you ask me, it hasn't even begun.

"For now I've been told to stay clear of the police because if they arrest me they will send me back to London."

Mr Pollock went on the run after claiming other soldiers took cocaine and ecstasy and stole personal items from his locker. He also accused Army chiefs of forcing soldiers to fight each other as a punishment for being drunk.

Mr Pollock hopes that when the investigation begins other soldiers will speak out.

He said: "I'm not the only one who has made these allegations. One soldier is still on the run and the other turned himself in and went back to London. He is now in military prison."

"I am not a liar and the investigation into our claims will prove it."