AFTER a demanding and successful final tour of Afghanistan, 200 soldiers from Tidworth-based 2nd Royal Tank Regiment (2 RTR) marched through the streets of Bristol to mark their return home last week.

The regiment spent almost seven months on active duty as part of Operation HERRICK 18 in Helmand Province, providing support to the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF).

Deployment on this operation was the regiment's last prior to amalgamation with 1st Royal Tank Regiment in August.

Accompanied by applause from the public, the ‘Tankies’ in their unique black overalls, proudly marched through the city centre of Bristol, the heart of their recruitment area.

Taking the salute was the Lord Lieutenant of Bristol, the Lord Mayor of Bristol, and the Colonel Commandant’s representative, Lieutenant Colonel David Catmur. The parade ended back on College Green and music was provided throughout by The Band of The Prince of Wales’s Division.

After a short reception at the City Hall, the Regiment moved off to watch the 2 RTR football team play a friendly match against Bristol City FC Under 21s.