Hundreds gather to welcome home the Mercians

Hundreds of people gathered in Lichfield to hail hero soldiers following their return from duty in Afghanistan.

Scores of flag waving residents greeted troops from the 3rd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment, as they led a parade through the town.

This was followed by a memorial service at Lichfield Cathedral attended by scores of soldiers and their families.

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A series of hymns and prayers were held during the ceremony yesterday afternoon.

It included remembering those who have been lost such as Private Gareth Bellingham from Stoke-on-Trent.

Many of the Mercian Regiment, known as the Staffords, returned from duty in October and are attending homecoming events across the region.

Private Michael Bradley, aged 20, of Aston Terrace, Stafford, said: "It was my first tour of duty and is good to be back to see family and friends. It is good to see we have got all this support it helps to keep us going."

Lance Corporal Daniel Kelly, aged 28, of Rising Brook, Stafford, added: "It was very hot out there and the living conditions are difficult. But it is a good feeling to see all this support for us."

Among those to line the streets and pay tribute to the efforts of the regiment was retired engineer John Lawless, of Lower Sandford Street, Lichfield. The 68-year-old said: "We have come to support our boys they do a terrific job. The whole country is so proud of them."

James Dennis, of Stowe Hill, Lichfield, did his national service with the Royal Air Force in the late 1940s also stood to honour the soldiers.

The 82-year-old said: "I am very proud to see all these people, it is a wonderful thing for the whole of Lichfield. These soldiers have made England proud."

The series of homecoming events have been organised around the Midlands this week.

A parade was held in Stafford at the weekend with others lined up for Wolverhampton tomorrow and in Walsall on Thursday.