HAVERFORDWEST celebrated the safe return of 245 Signal Squadron today (Tuesday) with a military parade and medal presentation ceremony.

Large crowds lined High Street to show their support to the soldiers, who marched from the top of town to Castle Square, led by the 948 Squadron Air Training Corps military band.

The 245 Signal Squadron, which forms part of the 14 Signal Regiment, was the last troop from Brawdy to be deployed to Afghanistan in March.

They were presented with their service medals by the Chairman of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Tom Richards, the Mayor of Haverfordwest, the Lord Lieutenant of Dyfed and the Brigade Commander in Wales.

The Mayor, Councillor Roy Thomas said: “It was my privilege to have given the first welcome home and now I have the added privilege of giving the final welcome home.

“My words in those early days were full of apprehension of what the future might hold. Today my words are full of thankfulness and joy.

“Only days ago we were asked to remember the thousands of troops who many years ago gave their lives for our safety. Today we say thank you for risking your lives for us.

“More importantly thank you for coming home safely. Please be assured that you will always hold a special place in the hearts of the people of this ancient town of Haverfordwest and Pembrokeshire.”

Prendergast Community Primary School was among the locals schools who turned out.

Teacher and MOD key worker Kay Reynolds said: “As a school we have more than 70 MOD service children, so obviously it’s something that we want to support.

“We’ve been building up closer links with the army for a while and we have parents on parade here today.

“The children are really excited to be here and have the opportunity to do a bit of flag waving.

“It’s sad that this will be the last time we see them, but also happy because they are all home safe.”