THE Royal Welsh Regiment has been awarded the Freedom of Monmouthshire.

Monmouthshire County Councillors unanimously agreed at a meeting of Full Council last week to recognise the heroism and devotion to the duty of The Royal Welsh Regiment in the service of others during the Afghanistan and Iraq campaigns.

Leader, Councillor Peter Fox told the meeting, "I am extremely proud of what the Regiment has done, working, serving and losing men on our behalf."

Councillor Sue White (pictured) added, "I am pleased this is before us as I had an uncle who was badly injured in the last war, he was proud until the day he died and I share that pride."

The granting of the Freedom of Monmouthshire will mean the Regiment will be placed on the Roll of Honorary Freemen of the County and will allow them to march through the streets of the county on all ceremonial occasions with colours flying, drums beating, bands playing and bayonets fixed.

Accepting the honour was Regimental Secretary, Colonel Peter Gooderson who said, "We are honoured to be offered this as it is the greatest honour a community can bestow. It is a huge reflection for the soldiers who are representing the county.

"I don't recall a period of three or four months of not being in combat. We have suffered casualties, fortunately, not as many as other, nevertheless, we have mourned.

"Thank you on behalf of the Regiment."

As part of a series of homecoming celebration parades across Wales, the Regiment will parade in Monmouth on March 4.

It is hoped The Royal Welch Fusileers, part of the Regiment, will be home from its operation in the Falklands in time for the march as it will be the first time the Regiment has been together for a considerable period.

The cost of the award is estimated to be £8,000 which includes commissioning a scroll, printing costs and holding a reception.