IF Michael Jackson wasn't in enough trouble already, he has just made a new enemy - the Cheshire Regiment.

The 46-year-old singer has angered veterans by donning British Army motifs for appearances in court, where he stands accused of child abuse.

His fashion faux-pas, including insignia for The Cheshire Regiment, The Royal Engineers and The Royal Corps of Transport have been seen as dis-respectful.

Richard Rawlinson, of the Cheshire Regiment Association, says many servicemen have been irked by Jackson's attire.

He said: 'There is a lot of pride attached to these badges and most of the servicemen I have spoken to are irate, especially the widows of soldiers who lost their lives for this country.

'If his father had served that would be fine but I can't see any affinity with the badges - as far as I know, and I apologise if I'm wrong, Michael Jackson has never served with any of the regiments.'

Mr Rawlinson, who served with the Royal Corps of Transport and the Cheshire Regiment in the 1970s, suggests that the problem lies with the widespread availability of the emblems. For example, a Cheshire Regiment badge can be bought on-line for as little as £2.75.

'They are freely available but they are usually bought by people with an affinity to the regiment.' he said.

'I think with Jackson it is the child in him - he thinks it is fancy to wear glittery badges.'

Jackson has denied 10 charges, including molestation, providing a minor, his accuser, with alcohol to seduce him, and plotting to kidnap the boy and his family.

He faces up to 20 years in jail if convicted.