A FAMOUS regiment is to take part in a spectacular parade through the streets of a North- East city early next year.

About 400 soldiers from The Rifles are to take part in a Freedom Parade through the historic heart of Durham on Sunday, February 17, to mark its links with the city.

The Rifles, who are now based just outside of Edinburgh, recently returned from service in Afghanistan.

The regiment was formed by the amalgamation of a number of regiments, including the Durham Light Infantry (DLI), which previously held the freedom of the city.

In 1968, the DLI was merged with three other county regiments to form The Light Infantry and the Durhams paraded their colours in the city for the last time in their 210-year history on December 12, that year.

Earlier this year, the Light Infantry joined with The Devonshire and Dorset Light Infantry, The Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Light Infantry and The Royal Green Jackets to form The Rifles - the largest infantry regiment in the British Army.

However, the new regiment retains the right to march its soldiers through Durham City because of its historic connections with the DLI.

Jasper Mann, media officer for The Rifles, said the soldiers were already talking about the visit to County Durham.

He said: "We are looking forward to coming to Durham City and re-affirming the strong links between the city and ourselves.

"We know that for some of our soldiers it will be extra special as Durham is their home city."

Following a service in Durham Cathedral, the soldiers, in full dress uniform, are expected to march through Palace Green, down Saddler Street to the Market Place and on into Millennium Square.

Councillor Bob Wynn, Mayor of Durham City, said: "It is a great honour and privilege for us all in Durham that the Rifles are exercising their right to parade through the city.

"The city's association with The Rifles' antecedents, the Durham Light Infantry and the Light Infantry, is known throughout the world.

"The Rifles actively recruit from within County Durham and we in the city are keen to affirm the close bonds with the regiment.

"The colours of the 2nd Battalion The Light Infantry will proudly adorn the Town Hall and bear testament to a distinguished record."

Further details of the parade are expected to be announced in the New Year.