HUNDREDS of people lined the streets of Worcester city centre to welcome more than 800 homecoming soldiers.

Troops from the 2nd Battalion the Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters), The Queen's Royal Hussars and the Grenadier Guards followed a parade route from Quay Street.

Cheers rose, applause broke out and Union flags fluttered from 11am as they strode via Broad Street, the High Street and The Shambles to mark Armed Forces Day.

Upon finishing, a civic reception and medal ceremony was to follow.

While the rank and file soldiers and their families made their way to Worcester Racecourse to enjoy a lunch paid for by the county's businesses.

• See tomorrow's Worcester News for the full story and more pictures.