LOCAL SOLDIERS who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan with such distinction could receive a civic welcome and a parade through the streets of Perth.

Two local councillors will this week lodge a motion ahead of a full council meeting, suggesting such initiatives would provide “appropriate recognition” for the brave and potentially deadly work undertaken by the armed forces.

Conservative group leader Alexander Stewart has been joined by Ann Cowan in calling for action to be taken locally.

They said it would mirror “homecoming” parades planned through the UK.

Perthshire has strong traditional links with the armed forces and is synonymous with The Black Watch regiment.

Perth is home to the regiment’s historic headquarters Balhousie Castle and the two councillors believe local people would be keen to pay tribute to soldiers from the area.

Their motion states that a civic reception and parade would “celebrate both their bravery and commitment.”

“Perth and Kinross has a strong association with the armed forces,” the two councillors said.

“To this end we believe that the council should acknowledge and support those men and women who are returning from active duties in Iraq or Afghanistan by providing appropriate recognition.”

They believe the council is perfectly placed to take the lead in extending a warm welcome home to those who have served without complaint in some of the world’s most troubled regions.

“We would propose that Perth and Kinross Council welcomes those men and women home by providing a parade and civic reception,” the motion states.

“This would celebrate both their bravery and commitment under difficult and dangerous circumstances and the continuing strong links the armed forces have with the area.

“Many towns and cities across the United Kingdom are proposing to welcome home those who have served with such distinction.”

The motion is set to be debated by councillors of all political shades ahead of a meeting on Wednesday.