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Around 630 members of the 2nd Battalion the Royal Gurkha Rifles marched through the streets of Folkestone on Thursday (18 June), to celebrate them being given the freedom of the town.

Actress Joanna Lumley who fronted the Gurkhas' victorious campaign to obtain settlement rights in Britain, addressed the crowds of well-wishers.

She said: "This is a wonderful day for Britain. You are the spearhead today for how this country can welcome people, it can recognise and honour."

Crowds cheered and clapped as the soldiers, who are based at the town's Shorncliffe Barracks, marched along the Leas, before being presented the Freedom of Folkestone honour by town mayor Janet Andrews.