Catterick Garrison soldiers receive medals for completing eight month Kabul tour

Soldiers from the Catterick Garrison line up in formation at the Richmond Castle ceremony Credit: ITV News Tyne Tees

Over 400 soldiers from the Catterick Garrison received operational medals at Richmond Castle during a special ceremony attended by the Duke of York.

The soldiers had spent eight months in Kabul, Afghanistan, where they supported the Afghan government. They also provided protection for NATO advisers.

Paying tribute to the soldiers, Captain Ash Pendlebury said it was a tough and dangerous eight months and that their loved ones should be proud.

A little boy sees his father for the first time in months after he returns from a tour in Kabul Credit: ITV News Tyne Tees

There were emotional reunions for many of the soldiers and their families. One couple said they would now resume their plans to get married

Addressing the regiment the Duke of York thanked them for their "dedication, loyalty and hard work."