Welsh Guards homecoming

The Prince of Wales presents Operational Service Medals as he welcomes home the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards who have recently returned from Afghanistan at Cavalry Barracks, Hounslow, West London.

More than three hundred soldiers from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards have paraded through the streets of Cardiff today after returning from a six month tour of duty in Afghanistan.

They held a memorial service to remember four colleagues who were killed in action.

They were Lance Corporal Lee Davies, Guardsman Craig Roderick, Guardsman Apete Tuisovurua and Warrant Officer Leonard Thomas.

But there was also happiness, with the young son of one soldier deciding to join in the march.

Jane Solomons followed the Parade.

One spectator couldn't resist joining in with the march. Little Wesley tried to keep up with his father as the soldiers marched past.

He was later rewarded with a signed rugby ball from Wales international Ryan Jones, who stopped by to support the returning men.

More than three hundred soldiers from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards have marched through Cardiff this afternoon after a six-month tour of Afghanistan.

The day started with a service of rememberance for the four members of the battalion who died during the operation. The total number of Welsh personnel killed has now risen to 32.

More than 300 soldiers from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, who have just returned from Afghanistan, will attend a memorial service on Thursday to remember four soldiers who were killed during the latest tour.

Lance Corporal Lee Davies, Guardsman Craig Roderick, Guardsman Apete Tuisovurua and Warrant Officer Class 2 Leonard Thomas were all killed in action during Operation Herrick 16.

After attending the service, the guards will parade through Cardiff from Cardiff Castle, through St Mary Street, around Mill Lane, through The Hayes and then back to the castle via Castle Street and Cardiff Arms Park.

Cardiff Council Leader, Councillor Heather Joyce, who will receive the official salute from the battalion, said: "The homecoming parade provides the opportunity for Cardiff residents and visitors to welcome the brave men and women from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards back to our capital city.

"The regiment held their first homecoming in 2010 in the city and I am delighted they will return once more to parade across the capital. I am very proud to be receiving the salute from the regiment and I would encourage people to come along to honour our soldiers."