by Jane Barlow

Hundreds of Gurkha soldiers paraded through
Folkestone today to celebrate being given the freedom of the
town.

Members of the 2nd
Battalion the Royal Gurkha Rifles, who are based at Shorncliffe
Barracks, paraded from Clifton Road to The Leas, into Sandgate
Road and West Terrace and then back along The Leas.

Actress Joanna Lumley, a keen supporter of the Gurkha
soldiers, attended the event.

Near to the Leas Cliff Hall they were greeted by town mayor
Janet Andrews who presented them with the freedom of the town, a
ceremonial honour, which the 1st Battalion were given some years
ago.

Hundreds of people lined the route.

The soldiers are also to be presented with medals at Sir John
Moore Barracks, following their recent efforts in Afghanistan.

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Video: Gurkhas given the
freedom of Folkestone