Still dressed in their desert combats, the airmen of 15 Squadron RAF Regiment were presented with operational service medals before being formally stood down.

During a gruelling six-month tour of duty guarding Kandahar Airfield, the squadron faced rocket attacks and bomb threats on a daily basis.

Flt Lt Phil Skorge, 31, said: "It is brilliant to be back. It was hard work out there and quite stressful at times.

"You never see the people who are trying to kill you and it is quite unnerving to be chasing shadows."

The squadron, which was due to be disbanded at the end of March, learned it was to remain intact for the foreseeable future.

Group Capt Russell La Fort said: "It is wonderful to have the squadron back safe and sound after such a successful tour."

The men were also treated to more than 200 bottles of Rock Ape Ale brewed for their return by the nearby Red Rat microbrewery.

Each bottle was bought by members of the public, with a personalised message for the troops on the back.

Laura Gervin, 26, was at the ceremony to welcome husband Scott, 23, home.

Mrs Gervin, with 17-month-old daughter Tiggi, said: "I am very relieved to have him back as it is very difficult while they are away.

"You do worry about all of them, especially when you hear of someone being killed, but you just have to get on with it."