Dudley today gave its war heroes a homecoming to be proud of as hundreds thronged the streets to watch the Mercian Regiment march through the town.

There were cheers as the soldiers dubbed Dudley’s ‘band of brothers’ set off from Vicar Street led by drummers and bearers of the regimental standard.

Around 100 staff from the regiment made up of the former Worcester and Sherwood Foresters and Staffordshire regiments were applauded by the crowds for their efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Lt Col Simon Banton said: “It’s really important for the lads to be recognised by the people from the towns and cities they come from. 

“They are the sons of Dudley and the surrounding area and they are part of the community as well as soldiers. The town should be proud of them.

“These lads have served in Afghanistan and Iraq and they’ve seen some hideous things, we had nine soldiers killed and six more seriously injured and they are very young men who are doing an exceptional job.  They are a band of brothers.”

Maj Paul Gilby said: “There were lots of local boys on parade today. We got an amazing reception from everyone.”

The soldiers marched to the Market Square where they were greeted by the  Mayor of Dudley Councillor David Stanley.

The ceremony was to celebrate the regiment being granted the Freedom of the Borough in October. This is the highest tribute a borough can bestow