10,000 welcome home Afghan troops

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Shoppers and workers lined the streets of Nottingham waving flags and clapping as troops from the Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) marched through the city.

Nottinghamshire Police said they estimated 10,000 people attended the parade. The Ministry of Defence said they believed it was one of the largest of its kind.

The 350 troops from the regiment's 2nd Battalion were among a 500-strong force that returned from Afghanistan in October after a six-month tour.

Commanding Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Simon Banton said: "The boys take a huge amount from it. All they crave is recognition for their efforts. To see it recognised today is tremendous.

"I think there is a genuine mark of separation between the war and the soldiers who are fighting the war.

"The regiment has such strong community links with Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Worcestershire. On war memorials here there will be the names of relatives who have served before us."

Private Jamie Grocock, 25, from Nottingham, said: "It was a great turn-out. It touches you when you hear people clapping. It makes you feel proud.

"Out there in Afghanistan you don't think you get a lot of respect but coming here shows people appreciate what we are doing."

Private Iain Melrose, 28, said: "What has happened is that with the loss of people, it brings it home to people back here what we go through."