HUNDREDS turned out to show their pride and support for Wirral's troops as the Mercian Regiment staged their homecoming parade today.

More than 150 soldiers from across the North West marched through Birkenhead town centre to Hamilton Square where they were greeted by rapturous applause and cheers from onlookers.

The 1st battalion were returning from a six-month tour of Afghanistan which saw troops supporting and mentoring the Afghan National Security Forces in Nad ‘Ali.

Addressing the crowd as the soldiers halted near Hamilton Square’s cenotaph, Wirral’s mayor Cllr Dave Mitchell said he was “honoured” to welcome them home.

He said: "I am greatly honoured to welcome the troops back after their tour of duty – we owe them an enormous debt of gratitude. It is wonderful to see so many local people here today to show their appreciation and support.”

During their operation, 1 Mercian were able to make “significant campaign progress” and handed lead responsibility over to the Afghan security.

And Lieutenant Colonel Philip Kimber said his soldiers rely on local support to stay motivated.

He said: “Today is really important for us as it demonstrates what we already know in terms of support but to see that support with our own eyes is amazing and the turnout has surpassed our expectations, considering it’s in the middle of week.

“We are very much a family, county regiment so to come home to a reception like this is great and you can see the lads grow a few inches with pride as we approach the crowds.

He added: “We arrived in Afghanistan at a time when they were then ready to deliver security themselves and we could provide a little bit of support. The police and the army really stood up to the plate.

“The lads are amazing as they had to go over there with the mindset that they would have to fight –and they fought very well - but also have an understanding of the campaign and what support we would be giving.”

Among those marching today was Private Vinnie Atkins, from Birkenhead, who has just completed his first tour in Afghanistan.

The 22-year-old said: “It was very interesting and a big eye-opener for me to see what’s happening there. We’re doing parades throughout the North West all week but coming back to my hometown is what I’ve been looking forward and is very special to me.

“All my family are here today and it has been very difficult being away from them all of course but the comradery between the lads keeps you going and we all get through it together.”

Also being greeted by his family Birkenhead dad Private Lloyd Cartwright whose little boy was just three months old the last time he saw him.

Pte Cartwright, 21, said: “I’ve been gone for most of Thomas’ little life so I’m making sure I spend as much time with him as possible. Seeing him after such a long time was incredible and very emotional for me.

“The tour has taught me a lot of life lessons and made me realise how lucky and proud I am to be British.”