SOLDIERS from Dalton Barracks near Abingdon marched through the market place this morning to exercise their new freedom of the town.

Earlier this year Vale of White Horse District Council presented 3 and 4 Regiments RLC with the freedom of the Vale area in recognition of their contribution of service to the country and the residents of the Vale.

The regiments exercised that freedom by marching through Abingdon this morning with rifles and bayonets fixed.

Private Miriam Njenga, from 3 Regiment, said it was a really important event to show civilians that "we do not bite."

The 25-year-old, who has a family history of serving in the military, said: "It was a really awesome parade.

"It is important for the civilians and the army to come together.

"It is like a platform, opening up to them to show that we do not bite."

Despite the wet weather hundreds of local families turned out to cheer and applaude the soldiers.

Barry Williams had his four-year-old son, Samuel, on his shoulders as they looked on in awe at the display.

Mr Williams, 39, said: "It is really great to be able to take my son to see this. 

"He really enjoyed listening to the drums and I think it shows that the army really is a big part of the community here."

The parade left Abingdon Fire Station on Ock Street at 10.50am.

Troops marched along Ock Street and High Street to the Market Place. The granting of the freedom will took place on the Market Place from 11am.

Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council, Matthew Barber, attended the parade and said it was "brilliant" and showed how strong the community's connections are with the military.

He said: "I think today really showed the strong bond we have with our military bases in the Vale.

"I think it is important people realise the work these men and women do not just overseas but also at home.

"It was the regiments based at Dalton Barracks who were first on the scene when we had all the South Hinksey floods.

"There will be a freedom parade later on in the year for the Rifle Regiment, which will be in Faringdon."