OKEHAMPTON branch of the Royal British Legion is appealing to people in the town and the rest of West Devon to show their support for the Armed Forces who have been risking their lives in Afghanistan.

Peter Williams, secretary of the Okehampton branch and press spokesman for Devon RBL, urges people from the area to go to Plymouth on Friday, April 17, when there will be a welcome home parade for 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery.

The regiment, whose home base is the Citadel, Plymouth, will have just returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan and will march from the Citadel to St Andrew's Church on Royal Parade at 9.30am.

After a church service, at approximately 11.45am, the regiment will march from the church to the Civic Centre, Plymouth, where members of the regiment will be presented their campaign medals.

This regiment uses Dartmoor as one of its primary training areas and the Okehampton Training Camp is its base.

Members of the regiment are often seen in and around the town and this parade, said Mr Williams, will be an apposite occasion for the people of Okehampton to show their support to our troops.

Mr Williams told the Times: 'If the troops go out to Afghanistan and at risk of life and limb for Queen and Country, and some do pay that price, then — regardless of whether you agree they should be there or not — this is an opportunity for people in West Devon to show their support and appreciation for our troops.

'I know myself, as an ex-serviceman, there is nothing more demoralising than not having the support of the public back home, when you are carrying out your duties abroad.

'Please go to Plymouth on April 17 and give them your support. It will mean so much to them.'