Squadron is welcomed back to base

The squadron was based at Camp Bastion

Members of 847 Naval Air Squadron have returned to their Somerset base after a seven-month tour in Afghanistan.

Thirty-six members of the RNAS Yeovilton-based crew were reunited with family and friends at a homecoming party before starting their leave.

The squadron worked with other parts of the Commando Helicopter Force to provide support to 3 Commando Brigade.

In total more than 70 squadron personnel took part in deployments between September 2008 and April 2009.

'Demanding deployment'

They were based at Camp Bastion and carried out reconnaissance patrols providing overhead cover for ground convoys using the Mark 7 version of the Battlefield Lynx.

The squadron also provided security during elections within the Helmand district centre.

At the ceremony on Friday afternoon Major Jamie Roylance said: "It is great to welcome the squadron back safely after such a demanding deployment, and to recognise the support of our friends and families during this period.

"As one half of the squadron return from Afghanistan, the other half are already deploying to the Indian Ocean to join the Royal Navy's Taurus 09 amphibious deployment."

Later this year 847 is planning deployments to Kenya and Norway.