Video: Royal Anglians homecoming parade - praise for people of Diss

Civic leaders and MPs from across Norfolk were full of praise for Diss following the Royal Anglian Regiment's parade, which police estimated attracted over 7,000 spectators.

Norfolk's High Sheriff Henry Cator and Lord Lieutenant Richard Jewson were joined by South Norfolk MP Richard Bacon at yesterday's parade along Mere Street to the Market Place and then to the top of St Nicholas Street.

Diss Mayor Graham Minshull gave a welcome address to the soldiers in the Market Place and said he was 'amazed' at the number of people in the town centre.

He added: 'It was amazing. From what I could see the whole town was chocca block, everywhere you looked there were people lining the streets.

'I don't think you will see an event like that for quite a long time in Diss, it was an amazing day for the town.'

Mr Bacon also praised the people of Diss for turning out in force to support the troops and was moved to hear 16 of the Regiment's soldiers had died since the war in Afghanistan began.

He added: 'It was a truly grand occasion indeed and I think from talking to some of the soldiers afterwards they were bowled over by it.

'I know from talking to the colonel of the regiment he has been to a number of different events of this type and he said he had never encountered a reception like it from the people.'

Mr Cator said: 'I have to say that town of Diss has done Norfolk proud. They have put so much effort into it and it really showed. The whole atmosphere was one of gratitude and respect for the young soldiers who have been fighting in Afghanistan with the Royal Anglian Regiment.'