Hundreds of soldiers are set to march through Romford as part of a special homecoming parade.

The troops from the 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment will take part in the parade in Romford’s historic marketplace on Tuesday November 6.

Commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Mick Aston, who is currently serving in Afghanistan said: “Over the last ten years, we as your County Infantry Regiment have been fortunate to have received the unwavering and exceptional support of the people of our home counties in East Anglia.

“You have watched the Battalion as we followed this path and have been there to support or soldiers at every step.”

He added: “To express our thanks for this remarkable support and to celebrate our return, the Battalion will be holding homecoming parades.”

The parade will mark the end of the soldiers fourth and final tour of Afghanistan.

It is expected to start from the Arcade Place before moving on to South Street and finishing off at Romford Market.

Residents are being encouraged to line the route and to come out and show their support.

Lieutenant-Colonel Aston said: “We look forward to welcoming you on our parade.

“So perhaps you could spare a few minutes of your time to join us and cheer the boys on as they march proudly past with drums beating, bands playing, colours flying and bayonets fixed.”

The Battalion, known as the Vikings were first deployed in Kabul in 2002, just months after the attack on the World Trade Centre.

Since then they have played a major role in helping to make progress in Afghanistan.

In this last tour, one of the soldiers lost his life bringing the total number from the Battalion killed in Afganistan since 2002 to 16.

In 2010, Havering Council awarded the freedom of the Borough to the Royal Anglian Regiment and the parade is part of a celebration of the honour.

Havering also has strong links with the Royal Anglians, and many residents have served with them.