Soldiers returning home from Afghanistan were greeted by cheering throngs in Esher on a sunny winter’s day.

The 1st Artillery Brigade, including troops from 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, 32nd Regiment Royal Artillery and 39th Regiment Royal Artillery, marched down the High Street on Friday, February 15, accompanied by the guns of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, the Royal Artillery Band and cadet troops from the area.

The march started at Esher Police Station and continued down the High Street to Sandown Park racecourse, where the Royal Artillery Gold Cup race was held.

Dominic Raab, MP for Esher and Walton, said: “It was an honour to welcome our troops from the Royal Artillery back home after their latest tour of Afghanistan. It was a wonderful opportunity for the town to show its respect and take pride in our armed forces.

“It’s really something special to see every generation represented along the march - from cadets to veterans - as well as serving soldiers.”

Troops from the 1st Artillery Brigade recently returned from Operation Herrick 16 and currently have men and women in Afghanistan on Operation Herrick 17.

Colonel Mark Thornhill, commander of 1st Artillery Brigade, said: “The past 10 years have been one of intense commitment to Iraq and Afghanistan for the men and women of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, and especially 1st Artillery Brigade.

“As our time in Afghanistan comes towards its end, we are confident that the changes we have witnessed and the training we will continue to provide to the Afghan Forces will leave Afghanistan fit for the future.

“I would like to thank all of our families and friends for their incredible support, and of course the people of Esher; their support and recognition make a world of difference.”

1st Artillery Brigade consists of soldiers who are unique in the British Army, providing precision firepower and aerial and ground surveillance.