Thousands welcome home heroes of the 3 Rifles from Afghanistan in Edinburgh

Published on Saturday 8 May 2010 20:09

THOUSANDS of well-wishers lined the streets of Edinburgh yesterday to give a "heroes' welcome" to the 3 Rifles following their gruelling tour of Afghanistan.

The 3rd Battalion The Rifles took part in a homecoming parade down the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace.

An Army spokeswoman said they received a "heroes' welcome". "You couldn't walk down the pavements of the Royal Mile because there were that many people waiting to see them."

The spokeswoman said the soldiers were greeted with cheers by the crowds.

She said: "The guys looked pretty emotional, pretty choked."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer, said: "We're absolutely thrilled and proud to be marching down the Royal Mile.

"The support of the people of Edinburgh certainly helps to boost morale after the last six and a half months."

A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman said there was a "nice turnout" with people standing six deep to watch the parade.

The 3 Rifles returned to Redford Barracks in Edinburgh last week after their Afghan tour in Helmand province as part of a 1,400-strong battle group. During the tour 30 members of the battle group were killed, 14 of them from 3rd Battalion the Rifles.