Prince Charles presents Mercian regiment with new colours

The Prince of Wales has presented an Army regiment in Worcestershire with their new colours in a ceremony rich with tradition.

Charles, as Colonel-in-Chief of The Mercian Regiment, formally presented each of the unit's four battalions - three regular, one territorial - with their new silk colours.

Traditionally, the flags would form a rallying point for the men of the regiment on the battlefield and are emblazoned with the names of famous campaigns the unit has fought in.

At a ceremony at the Sixways Stadium in Worcester the Prince addressed the 500 soldiers parading for the occasion and said: "I am endlessly proud of you all."

He presented new regimental and Queen's colours to each battalion, wearing the black number one ceremonial dress of The Mercians, in front of hundreds of members of the regiment's extended family, including young children and veterans.

It is the first time the unit has held such a presentation since its formation in 2007.

Addressing the parade, Charles said: "Today symbolises a special and historic moment of the whole Mercian regimental family, something serving soldiers, veterans, families and friends will all equally feel proud to be part of.

"As your Colonel-in-Chief I am also endlessly proud of you all and especially pleased to be able to share this day with you."

The battalion is being cut as part of a shake-up of the Army, previously announced by the Ministry of Defence.

He added: "I wish you all every possible success and good fortune for the future."