A REGIMENT that suffered eight fatalities during a recent tour in Afghanistan was honoured with the Freedom of County as part of a homecoming parade through Gloucester on Saturday.

The First Battalion The Rifles accepted the award at the march which was part of the national celebrations for Armed Forces Day, the replacement for veterans’ day.

Cllr Barry Dare, leader of Gloucestershire County Council said: "We agreed to award this Freedom last November in recognition of the founding regiment’s brave and loyal service and sacrifice on behalf of the nation."

During a recent tour of the Helman Province in Afghanistan, the regiment suffered eight fatalities.

Colonel Commandant, Lieutenant General, Sir Nick Parker said: "The Rifles are very proud to be extended both The Freedom of the County of Gloucestershire and the Forest of Dean District Council, in whose area one of our Battalions is based."