The soldiers from 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment (the Vikings) were greeted by warm applause by the thousands of spectators gathered in Diss Market Place.

The Battalion was inspected by Diss mayor Graham Minshull and the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk Richard Jewson while the band kept the crowd entertained with a series of big band tunes, including the Raiders March made famous as the theme tune for the film Indiana Jones.

After each tune, another burst of cheers and applause rippled around the packed Market Place, which was bathed in warm winter sunshine.

The Mayor gave a speech welcoming the troops and praising their efforts in helping to establish good government in Afghanistan.

He said: 'On behalf of the town council and the town and county, may I wish you a warm welcome to Diss.

'We are very honoured to see you and have followed your exploits with great interest. We are proud of the Battalion and the jobs you do on our behalf. We applaud your efforts in support of local governments in Helmand province.'

He added: 'We also recognise the sacrifices that you and your families are required to make. We remember the 16 soldiers that were killed in action.'

He told the assembled troops the town council decided at a meeting on November 16 to bestow the Freedom of the town on the Regiment in recognition of its efforts.

'It is an enormous honour to stand here today and welcome you on behalf of all the people of Diss.'