MORE than 300 soldiers who returned from Afghanistan just last week proudly marched through the streets of York today, May 24.

And crowds lined the streets, some waving Union flags, as the troops marked their Freedom of the City as part in their homecoming celebration.

The soldiers from 2 Signal Regiment, accompanied by the Royal Corps of Signals Band, marched from York Minster through the city streets and past the saluting dais at the Mansion House.

The saluting officer on behalf of the people of the city was the Lord Mayor of York, Coun Julie Gunnell, accompanied by Brigadier Greville Bibby, commander of 15 North East Brigade.

The soldiers have been working at several locations within Helmand Province and Kabul providing force protection as well as telecommunications, IT and secure communications to the International Security Assistance Force.

Commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Colin Vaudin said: “The public support that was on display in the city of York today is testament to the character of the British people and the warmth and respect they have for the Armed Forces.

“For 2 Signal Regiment this parade marks the end of a challenging and rewarding tour of Afghanistan. We were all humbled by the overwhelming response from the public to welcome us home.”

The regiment was awarded the Freedom of York following their service to the city and its people during the severe flooding of 2000.