A welcome home parade was also held in Barnsley soon after the troops returned from Afghanistan and hundreds of people lined the streets of the town.

People waved from office windows and shoppers stopped to greet the soldiers with applause and cheers of 'well done' and 'thank you' as they marched through the streets.

The regiment, which is known as 'England's Northern Cavalry', has its recruitment heart in the town although it has been based in Swanton Morley for the past 12 years.

Prior to the start of the parade, the Lord-Lieutenant of South Yorkshire, David Moody, and the Mayor of Barnsley, Councillor Dorothy Higginbottom, inspected the troops.

A minute's silence was then held in memory of all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice on this latest tour of Afghanistan, including Sergeant Lee Davidson who was from Doncaster.

Addressing the troops, the Mayor of Barnsley said: 'We are here to let you know how very proud the people of Barnsley are of you. We are here to let your families and friends know that we share their relief and happiness that you are here, safe and sound.

'However, sadly there are some who have not returned home from this latest tour and in particular we will remember Sergeant Lee Davidson. I want you to know we will never ever forget them.'

The Commanding Officer of the Light Dragoons, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Plant, said: 'It was a great privilege to take part in this homecoming parade. We are deeply grateful for the support shown to us by the people of Barnsley and the council.'