Perth parade honours Black Watch

THE Black Watch, the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, are to hold a homecoming parade through Perth city centre on Friday, following their return from a six-month tour of duty in Afghanistan.

The 450-strong force of soldiers from the Black Watch played a major role in securing the Nad-e Ali district of Afghanistan during their deployment and joined Afghan security forces on a series of missions against the Taleban.

A spokeswoman for Perth and Kinross Council said: “The Black Watch’s long-standing links with Perth and Kinross include the granting of the Freedom of the City of Perth in 1947, and as a result, the Battalion will march with drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed. The parade is one of four that the Black Watch will be undertaking in Tayside and Fife to mark their return home.”

Provost John Hulbert said: “I am sure that many people will want to come out on Friday afternoon and welcome the Black Watch back to Perth after what I am told has been a rewarding but challenging experience for the Battalion in Afghanistan. We recognise the importance of the links between the Black Watch and the Perth and Kinross area and I am delighted, this will continue that great tradition.”