Dozens of paratroopers based in Essex "were recorded having an orgy with a woman who was smuggled into their barracks", it has been reported.

The Sun and Daily Mail have both carried articles claiming footage shows soldiers from the 3rd Battalion the Parachute Regiment of 16 Air Assault Brigade taking part in a "consensual orgy" with a red-headed woman.

The newspaper says the woman was smuggled into Merville Barracks, Colchester, with one soldier even allegedly seen saluting as his friend has sex with the woman.

An Army spokesman told the Sun: "The Army expects the highest standards of behaviour from all personnel.

"Anyone not maintaining these standards will be investigated."

The newspaper claims the Royal Military Police has launched an investigation, with army chiefs "shocked" by the alleged incident.

The reported investigation is said to be probing how the woman was brought into the barracks and whether any military orders were breached.

The Ministry of Defence has been contacted for comment.