TROOPS from 246 Gurkha Signal squadron who have just returned from Afghanistan marched through York to applause from passers-by.

The 75 soldiers, who are based in York, met up in Parliament Street and marched down Coney Street to the Mansion House across Lendal to the Museum Gardens. They were then presented with service medals by Major General Jacko Page and Coun Irene Waudby, the Lord Mayor of York.

An Army spokesman for Yorkshire and the North East said: "The Gurkhas were touched by the show of support and loud applause by the hundreds of people lining Coney Street.

They were also greeted by other well-wishers in the Museum Gardens to see them receive their medals.

But undoubtedly they were most pleased and proud that their wives and families had gathered there to share that special occasion with them."