Residents turned out in force to welcome back 2 Force Protection Wing, RAF Regiment, including 34 Sqn RAF Regiment, as they marched through the town last week.

Their joyful reunion with loved ones followed a seven-month stint in Afghanistan, and marked the end of difficult tour for the squadron, which lost Acting Corporal Marcin Wojtak to a bomb blast.

The parade along South End and Market Place accompanied by the Band of the RAF Regiment concluded with a medal presentation outside Bedale Hall.

'emotional day'

Squadron Leader 'George' Formby, Officer Commanding 34 Sqn RAF Regiment, said: "It was an emotional day and we were very impressed by the turn-out. We certainly didn't expect that many people – it was a very warm welcome.

"The guys have now seen for themselves just how respected they are and how appreciative people are of the job they are doing. It was a very poignant day with the high point of coming back set against the low point of losing Cpl Wojtak. It was a fitting opportunity for the whole squadron to remember him together."

'extremely appreciative'

Returning from his first operational tour was SAC Gavin Mason, who was also overwhelmed by the support received from the people of Bedale.

"It's hard to put it into words but it made the hair stand up on the back of my neck that people would come out and clap for us," said the 20 year old.

RAF Leeming's Station Commander, Group Captain William Gibson, said: "We are extremely appreciative of the support provided by the Mayor and the townspeople of Bedale to all at RAF Leeming and the regiment in particular.

"We would like to thank them all for the tremendous support to us as part of the local community."