They were worried that people wouldn't bother to turn up. Then it began to rain and they worried even more.

But the smiles on the faces of these returning heroes say it all.

Kent turned out in force to welcome back the troops of 36 Engineer Regiment.

Maidstone town centre was packed with cheering, flag-waving people who found a few minutes to salute the troops.

First, the men and women of the 36 Engineer Regiment, watched by their proud families, received their Operational Service medals. Then they marched along Week Street, the High Street and Mill Street to All Saints Church.

The family of one of the two Engineers who died on the six month tour had urged people to turn out to watch. It would mean so much for the soldiers to know the community appreciated them, they said.

And Kent showed it cared in true style.