Action to welcome home troops

Soldiers based at a Shropshire barracks are to return home after a six-month tour of duty in one of the world’s most dangerous hotspots.

Across the hot and dusty Helmand Province, troops - some merely teenagers - have lived behind sandbags for months at a time.

But for the troops of the Royal Irish Regiment the joy of returning to Tern Hill’s Clive Barracks is tinged with sadness for those whose lives were lost.

Preparations are well advanced for Shropshire’s official welcome home on October 16.

A service of thanksgiving at Shrewsbury Abbey will be followed by a parade led by pipes, buglers and drums, Irish Wolfhound mascot Brian Brew in combat gear and a teddy bear, also in combats, who has been with the men through the worst times of their tour.

It was the idea of Shropshire County Council chairman Brian Gillow, who wants to make it a real flag-flying day.

He says: “We hope as many people as possible will line the streets to help welcome the troops and to recognise their bravery.

“The service will also remember the many troops from Shropshire who have served and are still serving overseas.”

Space inside the abbey is limited but the 11am service, led by the Rt Bishop of Lichfield Rt Rev Jonathan Gledhill and vicar Rev Chris Sims, will be relayed outside through loud speakers.

Afterwards, soldiers who have spent the past months helping set up and train the Afghan Army, will march to the Shirehall with the salute taken by the Lord Lieutenant. It’s hoped the route will be lined by schools, scouts, cadets, the British Legion and others wanting to say welcome home.

Just back from Afghanistan, Captain Brian Johnston says: “We come back knowing that we have helped and have made a difference. The response from Shropshire has been fantastic. People have sent messages, gifts and Market Drayton in particular has really taken us to its heart.

“It has all made the boys feel so welcome and kept them going.”

Now, it is hoped hundreds will turn out to applaud those boys back home.

By Shirley Tart