Thousands of proud residents lined the streets of Bargoed on Saturday to welcome the 1st Battalion of the Royal Welsh as they marched through the town. People of all ages applauded the troops as they paraded through Bargoed before coming to a halt at Hanbury Square. Crowds massed on the square as the Mayor, the Lord Lieutenant and other key dignitaries inspected the ranks and formally welcomed the regiment. Fusilier David Williams, 25, of Aberbargoed, said: "It was a brilliant turnout from the people of Bargoed, we are delighted with the amount of people who came here today. I've seen loads of friends and family, it's been a very uplifting and emotional time for me." The regiment was accompanied by the Band of the Royal Welsh, local cadets and the regimental mascot - Billy the goat. The special event marked the third anniversary of the regiment receiving the Freedom of the County Borough from the council. The Leader of CCBC Cllr Harry Andrews said, "What a turnout and what a welcome! The people of Bargoed and the surrounding areas should be proud of themselves for the support provided to our brave soldiers. This was certainly a day to remember for all concerned and the event also helped showcase the regeneration of the town and the impressive new developments that will breathe new life into Bargoed." The Mayor of Bargoed Town Council, Cllr Alan Higgs added, "This was a glorious day for Bargoed, one that will be talked about for years to come, the day that the people of the town stood as one, side by side and celebrated the visit of our 1st Battalion the Royal Welsh and a new look Bargoed." Traders in the town centre entered into the spirit of the occasion by dressing their shop windows in patriotic colours and themed displays. The event was also generously supported by Morrisons, who are currently developing a major new store in the town, and by their agents Simons Ltd. Lewis School Pengam kindly hosted the troops following the parade for refreshments and musical performances by the pupils.

• published: 02 Oct 2013
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