More than 150 soldiers recently returned from Afghanistan are due to march through Skipton this month.

Around 100 guardsmen with fixed bayonets, 30 Ghurkas, five drummers and two armoured vehicles will form the Freedom Parade on Friday June 25.

The 3rd Battalion of the Yorkshire Regiment, formerly The Duke of Wellington’s, was awarded the freedom of Craven in May 2002.

And on June 25 – two days before the country celebrates Armed Forces Day – the soldiers will be hoping for the support of Craven people.

They will set off from Otley Street at 10.40am and parade up High Street, around the roundabout and stop outside the library.

There will be a ceremony attended by the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire Lord Crathorne, the chairman of Craven District Council Paul Whitaker and Colonel Newton of the Yorkshire Regiment.

Afterwards, the soldiers will march down High Street, along Swadford Street and Coach Street to Water Street, Mill Bridge, High Street and finally back to Otley Street.

Coun Whitaker said: “The freedom parade provides an opportunity for residents to show their support and appreciation to the young men and women who do a very dangerous but vital job and put their lives at risk in service of their country.

“It would be wonderful if as many Craven residents as possible could attend to cheer on our brave soldiers.”