Fusiliers’ homecoming parade in Rochdale

Thousands lined the route when the Second Battalion of Fusiliers returned home in 2009

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Rochdale is being given the chance to say thank you to hundreds of soldiers for their overseas service. Following a grueling six month tour in Afghanistan, the First Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers is now heading home and has been invited by Rochdale Borough Council to parade through the town.

The event, which is the first of just six to be held across the UK, has been arranged for Tuesday 19 November to welcome the soldiers back to England and thank them for their service in Afghanistan.

Following a parade in the town centre, a reception of servicemen/women and invited guests will be held at Rochdale Town Hall.

Rochdale has been linked to the Fusiliers since 1881. They were awarded Freedom of the Borough in 1947.

Col Mike Glover, Regimental Secretary for the Fusiliers in Lancashire said the reaction from people at home really makes their time serving overseas worthwhile:

“The soldiers have just completed a particularly arduous tour in Afghanistan. They are proud of what they have achieved and many of the Fusiliers come from Rochdale and Greater Manchester. I know they are looking forward to parading in front of their families and friends.”

Councillor Alan McCarthy, Lead Member for the Armed Forces at Rochdale Borough Council said: “We have all seen the media coverage of our servicemen and women in Afghanistan, but few of us can properly understand the sacrifices they go through for their country. I am pleased to hear this parade is coming to Rochdale and we are being given the chance to welcome these heroes back to our shores.”

The Mayor, Councillor Peter Rush said: "This parade means a great deal to everyone who is taking part and we're hopeful of a large turnout. Back in 2009 when the last Homecoming Parade was held, people came out in their thousands … I trust local people will once again stop for a moment and join us to show the soldiers and their families how proud we are of them and how much we appreciate the dedicated way in which they carry out their duties."

Rochdale was one of the first councils in the country to sign the Armed Forces Community Covenant last November, aimed at encouraging local communities to support services that promote and encourage activities that help integrate Armed Forces personnel back into civilian life. It also encourages authorities to work more closely to support those in service and their families, ensuring there is no disadvantage associated with serving in the Armed Forces.

Details of the route and times for the Homecoming Parade on Tuesday 19 November will be released shortly.