THE PEOPLE of Angus turned out in their hundreds yesterday as The Black Watch marched through Arbroath, Montrose and Forfar in what could be the last opportunity for the public to pay tribute to the regiment in its historic form.

Hundreds lined the streets of Arbroath to show their appreciation and support as the 280 troops paraded through.

The event was attended by Angus Provost Bill Middleton, MP Mike Weir, MSP Andrew Welsh, and councillors Alex King and Stewart McGlynn.

The sheriff court delayed the start of the day’s business as Sheriff Norrie Stein, court officers, staff and solicitors gathered outside the building to watch the parade go past.

The parade continued on to Arbroath Abbey where there was a short service before the troops left to continue their tour of the county.

Speaking after the parade Mr Welsh congratulated The Black Watch on their successful tour of duty and safe returnto Scotland.

“The sad losses which they suffered are a reminder to us all of the dangers and bravery of these men in the work that they do on behalf of us all,” he said. “The turnout of citizens in each Angus town where parades took place is a tribute to all who serve in this regiment and a thank you to them.

“Discipline and devotion to duty almost sound old fashioned in the present day and age, but they are qualities which defend our way of life and should be both valued and appreciated.

“Today the people of Angus showed their appreciation for a job well done by our local and much respected regiment.

“The Black Watch carried out their mission in Iraq under very difficult circumstances and whatever we may have thought about the reasons for the war, everyone has supported the troops throughout.

“The Black Watch have very strong ties with the communities of Angus and the large turnout of local people at the parade shows the affection in which the regiment is held.”

The event was also attended by Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate Sandy Bushby.

She said, “I was delighted to watch today’s parade through Arbroath—the regiment’s parades through the towns of Tayside and Fife are wonderful to see and are greatly appreciated by local residents who are, of course, so pleased that The Black Watch has returned from its duties in Iraq.

“The soldiers of The Black Watch looked so smart today and the parade made me feel really proud of them and all they have achieved.

“Today’s march inspired me to work even harder to ensure that we can retain this regiment and fend off the Government’s short-sighted merger plans.”

In Montrose, the servicemen paraded along the length of the town from south end of the High Street via Murray Street to the swimming pool, greeted by rapturous cheering and applause from the people gathered on the pavements on both sides.

On a central podium, the provost was again joined by the regiment’s colonel in chief, Mr Welsh and Mr Weir and local councillors to take the salute.

One of the loudest cheers was reserved for the Montrose Black Watch veterans in full regalia and decorated with a glittering array of medals who brought up the rear of the parade, marching along erect and proud.

The soldiers went on to a rousing reception when they marched through Forfar .

People of all ages thronged the streets of the town centre to watch the parade of troops, led by bandsmen.

Provost Middleton thanked everyone who took to the streets of Angus to show their support.

“The number of people out on the streets today is testament to the high regard and affection the people of this area have for The Black Watch,” he said.

“Local families have connections with the regiment that spans generations and that sense of association has spread through the community over the years.

“Today gave us the opportunity to show our support of and pride in the regiment.

“The Black Watch were particularly pleased with the reception they received and asked me to pass on their gratitude to the public and also the police, commending them on the arrangements made for the parade.”