HUNDREDS of people lined the streets of Glasgow for an emotional Homecoming parade.

They were out in force to welcome more than 400 soldiers from the Royal Highland Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 Scots) who have just returned from Afghanistan.

The unit was deployed to Helmand Province in April this year and worked with the Afghan police to help improve their capability.

The soldiers were welcomed to the city by Lord Provost Sadie Docherty.

She said the homecoming parade marked the great association the Royal Highland Fusiliers have with the city.

Mrs Docherty added: "You can be assured you are held in the highest regard in Glasgow and across Scotland.

"The challenges you met on a daily basis are unimaginable to most of us who watched you march.

"You may be assured we are all proud and grateful to witness your safe return and you should all be proud of what you have achieved individually and collectively.

"We all, like you, fervently hope stability and peace will be established in Afghanistan.

"The people of Glasgow wish you all the very best for the future and hope it will not be as long before we see the battalion in the city once again."

Tragically, three soldiers from the battalion were killed and six injured when their vehicle was struck by an explosive device.

Lieutenant Colonel Robin Lindsay said: "Our thoughts have been and will continue to be with the families of the three soldiers who were killed on operations.

"Our role was to advise and liaise with the Afghan Uniformed Police.

"They were outstanding."

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk