Town salutes Afghanistan troops

More than 300 soldiers marched through an Essex town to mark their return from Afghanistan and to remember those who did not come home.

Troops from the Colchester-based 16 Air Assault Brigade took part in a church service, followed by a march down the High Street to the Town Hall.

A reception was attended by dignitaries and Defence Secretary John Hutton with residents cheering the parading troops.

Soldiers from the garrison have spent six months on duty in Afghanistan.

The mayor of Colchester, Margaret Fairley-Crowe, said: "This special ceremony paid tribute to the bravery and resilience of the soldiers that served in Afghanistan, remembering and honouring the fallen troops.

"People across Colchester welcomed the opportunity to show their support and appreciation to the Armed Forces by celebrating the return of 16 Air Assault Brigade to their family and friends."

Brigadier Mark Carleton-Smith, commander of 16 Air Assault Brigade, said the turnout of people in Colchester had been "magnificent".

He said Colchester-based troops drew strength from their special relationship with the town but he warned that "turbulent times" inevitably lay ahead.

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