THE Green Howards regiment marched though the streets at the weekend to mark their return from six months in Afghanistan.

The Freedom March started near the Dorman Museum, in Middlesbrough, and was led by the Tyne Tees Regiment Band and the Green Howards Corps of Drums in their scarlet uniforms.

The parade on Saturday was under the command of the battalion's commanding officer, Lt Colonel Jim Willis.

Taking part were 275 soldiers who marched with bayonets fixed and colours flying.

At the junction of Albert Street and Russell Street, the salute was taken by the chairman of Middlesbrough Council, Councillor Javed Ismail.

During the salute, he was joined by Mayor of Middlesbrough Ray Mallon and Green Howards Colonel of the Regiment, Brigadier John Powell.

Mr Mallon said: "We welcome the Green Howards back to Middlesbrough for this important ceremony that cements the link between our town and the regiment.

"The Green Howards have played a vital role in our national defence and have served the nation with great distinction in times of great danger and uncertainty.

"Many of its soldiers come from Middlesbrough and the Teesside area.

"We are proud of them and pay tribute to their record of courage and service."

After the salute, the 1st Battalion marched to the Town Hall, where there was a formal welcome from the Mayor and the exchange of gifts between the city and the Regiment.

The Green Howards were given the Freedom of Middlesbrough in 1944 and of Teesside in 1976.