SOLDIERS from the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment are set to parade through Pendle.

Pendle Mayor Asjad Mahmood has met with the regiment in a bid to host a parade similar to major ‘homecoming’ events in Blackburn and Clitheroe in the past two years.

Different battalions from the regiment are set to serve in Afghanistan in the next year.

And Army bosses said they were now in talks with a number of towns over parades.

Coun Mahmood said: “The regiment already has the Freedom of the Borough of Pendle. I have been keen to invite them to parade through Pendle during my mayoral year. I wanted to thank our soldiers who risk their lives both at home and abroad to serve our country for their bravery and sac-rifice to keep us all safe in a troubled world.

“I would have been del-ighted to host this parade this year to re-affirm the Duke of Lancaster Regiment’s right to Freedom of the Borough. But that’s just not going to be possible. However, I’m hopeful that they will be able to commit to visiting Pendle at some time in the next few years.

“The parade will give the people of Pendle the opportunity to thank them on behalf of the borough for their gallant and courageous service. The true strength of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment is not just in the front line — it is in the homes and hearts of people across Pendle.”

The regiment was awarded the Freedom of the Borough in 2001.

Col Chris Owen, regimental secretary of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, said: “We recently met with representatives of Pendle and were kindly invited to parade within the borough.

“In order that we can show our gratitude for the continuing support we receive from the people of Pendle, this is something we are extremely keen to do."