PRIME Minister David Cameron has backed freedom parades for Britain’s Afghan heroes.

The Yorkshire Regiment is due to parade through Huddersfield on July 20.

And in a debate in the Commons, Mr Cameron said parades were a great way of the public showing their thanks to the troops.

Colne Valley MP Jason McCartney had raised the issue. He asked Mr Cameron: “Does the Prime Minister agree that freedom parades are a fitting way for our communities to pay tribute to our brave servicemen and women for their contribution in Afghanistan?”

Mr Cameron said; “There is a yearning in this country to find new ways to recognise what our armed forces do and all they represent.

“For some years in the past we did not really do enough and we were not quite sure how to show our appreciation. Armed Forces day was a good step forward and the military covenant is a good step forward.

“I also think these parades are a great way, on a cross-party basis of everyone turning out on to our streets and saying thank you.”