OUR troops were given a heroes welcome yesterday as they marched through the city.

A huge crowd lined their route to cheer the boys – and four girls – of our local regiment as they returned from Afghanistan.

Many people were moved to tears while others cried “welcome home” and “well done lads” as members of the 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) marched by.

The air rang with the sound of clapping as the 500 troops, dressed in their desert uniform, made their way from Worcester Cathedral and along the High Street, led by the regimental mascot, a ram.

Worcestershire’s lord lieutenant, Worcester’s mayor and the regiment’s deputy colonel took the salute outside the Guildhall.

The size of the crowd even took some of the soldiers by surprise. Corporal Lee Hodson, from Worcester, said: “It’s nice to see all the crowds coming out to support us. There were people all the way down to Broad Street. It’s made it worthwhile. It’s just unfortunate the other lads [those who died] can’t be here to watch it.”

Private Wayne Cadmore, from Malvern, said: “I’m surprised how many people turned up. I’ve never seen that before and I’ve been in the Army for 10 years.”

Private Sam Jeavons, 18, from Pershore, said: “It makes us really proud.”

Among those lining the streets were Michael and Lois Dandey. Tearfully, Mrs Dandey said: “They’ve given their heart and soul for this country. Whether you believe in it or not they’ve done their best.”

Anne Marden, of St John’s, Worcester, said: “I’ve been here for two hours waiting for our boys. It was very emotional.”

The march followed a drumhead service at the Cathedral where the regiment’s drums and colours were arranged into a makeshift altar – usually done when holding a service in the field.

As well as giving thanks for the regiment’s safe return, the service remembered the five soldiers lost during the last tour.

Five candles burned poignantly for those who died including Worcester’s Jason Williams and Bromsgrove’s Robert Laws.

Private Aaron Davis, a friend of Pte Williams who was with him when he died, was visibly moved as he lit the candle in his memory.

The regiment’s chaplain, John Duncan, told the congregation: “When you were asked by people where you were today, tell them with a quiet dignity why we were here and say we must remember.”

Mayor Andy Roberts hosted a civic reception for the soldiers and their families, where some of the troops received medals.

Coun Roberts said: “I was impressed by the number of people who turned out on a cold, dark day to cheer the soldiers. I could see tears being wiped away.”

The battalion’s Lieutenant Colonel Simon Banton said: “These days are fantastic. The lads love it."