Union Jacks were waved and cheers rang out around town to mark the return of 3 Squadron RAF Regiment of RAF Wittering from a six-month tour of Afghanistan.

The parade began at 9.45am at Bath Row, covering Red Lion Square before finishing at the town hall in front of a balcony of civic leaders. As the personnel marched, drummers pounded a beat in front of crowds which included family, friends and ex-servicemen.

Before the parade the Mercury handed out hundreds of flags, kindly sponsored by New College Stamford.

RAF Wittering Squadron Leader Tony Walsh said: "They've spent an arduous time on the frontline and I think this is the thing which beings it home to them that they're back. The appreciation of the public is a great boost to them."

Stamford Mayor Maureen Jalili described the attendance as "heartwarming". She said: "I thought it was very moving and I did see a few people with tears in their eyes. Stamford has done us proud as usual."

At about 10am bells chimed at All Saints' Church and shortly after a flyover wowed the people in attendance.

Ex-serviceman Ken Odell, 85, of Well Cross, Edith Weston, said: "I was stationed at Wittering for a short time and I thought I would come here and give them a wave. I remember coming home after being based abroad and being able to see family and friends."

Retired Hilary Dawson, 55, of Church Street, Northborough, was left in tears after the spectacle. She said: "It's such an emotional day. It all seems so real now, it's brought it back home how brave they have been."

Squadron leader Reverend Matthew Olanrewaju, 45, of 3 Squadron, RAF Wittering, said: "It was a good turnout and from that point of a view it was a boost for the town. For the servicemen a reception like this boosts morale. It says what they've done is not in vain."