SOLDIERS returning to Hertfordshire after a tour of duty in Iraq have spoken of their pride and pleasure at marching through Watford today.

More than 200 soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment, took part in the Freedom of the Borough parade along Watford High Street.

Thousands of wellwishers lined the street to show their support, waving Union Flags, cheering and clapping.

Private Rikki Maling, 20, from Garston, said it was a “great pleasure” coming back to Watford.

He said: “It's personal and it's close to home. It's great to see the whole county is behind us.

“It's great because now we know we're getting a lot of support from people back in England. When we're away we don't know how much people are supporting us. To see the amount of people who are here cheering for the troops, it's great for us. It's amazing for morale."

Private Ed West, from Bushey, added: “This is the one we've been waiting for. It's personal to us.”

Watford MP Claire Ward was delighted with the "fantastic" turnout of residents.

She said: “It's a real privilege for the people of Watford to show their support for this regiment. They did it fantastically well today.

“There was no incident or trouble because I think what we've seen today expresses the views not just of this town but the majority of people right across the country.”

Meanwhile, Watford Police Chief Inspector John Dempsey-Brench hailed the occasion as "a day Watford can be proud of".

He said: “We would like to thank members of the public for their co operation.

“Everybody showed their appreciation to the soldiers and entered into the spirit of the parade. It was a day Watford people can be proud of.

“It was also a positive example of partnership work between Hertfordshire Constabulary, Watford Borough Council, the Ministry of Defence and Hertfordshire Highways, making the event enjoyable for all.”