HAMPSHIRE’S soldiers were due to arrive home this weekend after making their final journey out of Iraq – and the local Army recruitment office is urging people to show their support by buying special Tigers wristbands.

Southampton’s Army Careers Information Office wants Hampshire residents to give the lads of 1st Battalion, Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment (1PWRR) – nicknamed the Tigers – a warm welcome home.

From the office in High Street, they will be selling special edition wristbands to mark their homecoming. The wristbands cost £2 and £1 goes to the Daily Echo-backed services charity Help For Heroes and £1 goes to the regiment.

Echo picture by Matt Watson. Order no: 8587984