THERE were emotional scenes as 85 battle-weary soldiers were reunited with their loved ones yesterday.

The 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment returned to Catterick Garrison, in North Yorkshire, following a six-month tour of Afghanistan as part of Task Force Helmand.

Wives, mothers and children watched as the soldiers marched on to the square at Somme Barracks under leaden skies.

But for some families the day was poignant – three men did not return with their comrades.

Fijians Corporal Taniela Rogoiruwai and Kingsman Ponipate Tagitaginimoce, together with Lance Corporal Jordan Bancroft, of Burnley, Lancashire, were killed while stationed at Nad-e-Ali.

Waiting at Catterick were Roderick and Lynne Gate who were reunited with their son, Kingsman Jason Gate, 21.

Mrs Gate, of Whitehaven, Cumbria, said: “Tthere’s an overwhelming sense of relief and I’m very happy.”

Sergeant John Penn, 29, of Barrow, Cumbrian, was shot in the thigh two weeks ago, adding to the worry for his wife, Claire, and children Amy, four, and Jack, two.

Mrs Penn, 27, said: “I’ve been worrying and watching the news and trying to keep it from the children.

“The children heard he’s been shot and to them it means you’re dead so it’s been worrying.”