The honour was given by High Peak Borough Council to the recently formed Mercian Regiment which now incorporates the Sherwood Foresters, who have held the honour for many years.

High Peak Mayor Jean Wharmby told the troops: "It is one way we can show our appreciation for the brave men and women of the Mercian Regiment.

"We are proud of your achievements," she told them.

The regiment recently returned from Afghanistan where they were involved in heavy fighting and helped ensure local people were able to return to their homes. They will go to Belfast next month and are expected to return to Afghanistan next year.

Lieutenant Colonel Simon Banton said: "We are honoured to be here and honoured to receive the very significant award of the Freedom of the Borough of High Peak

"The battalion returned from Afghanistan four months ago. We had nine lads killed in action and the battalion received a number of very special awards including two Conspicuous Gallantry Crosses and five Military Crosses.

"Some of these men who received the honours are standing in front of you today. I am immensely proud of my soldiers; they are exceptional men."

After making their way along Spring Gardens and into the Pavilion Gardens, the troops, accompanied by cadets and members of the Royal British Legion, were inspected by the Mayor before the ceremony.

Speaking afterwards, Cllr Wharmby said: "It was absolutely wonderful. They are a credit. The cadets were brilliant as well."

Lt Col Banton said: "We were exceptionally well received by local people and there was a tremendous turnout from borough councillors and officials.

"We think it is really important to maintain our freedoms. We see ourselves as a part of Derbyshire civic life.

"This battalion is the Derbyshire Infantry Battalion. The young men that are serving are all boys from Derbyshire, Nottingham and Worcester."