SOLIDERS will parade through the city centre to mark the 10th anniversary of the Mercian Regiment's formation.

The event will celebrate the fighting force, which incorporated a number of local regiments - including Worcestershire's - when it was created in 2007.

The march will start outside Worcester Cathedral at 11am on Saturday, October 21, and end next to the Dancox House Army Reserve Centre in Pheasant Street, Worcester.

A plaque will be unveiled at the centre in memory of Private Frederick Dancox, who fought bravely for the county's regiment in World War One.

Captain David Maddock, of the Mercian Regiment, said, “This day is one of a series of events to mark this significant milestone for the Mercian Regiment.

"We will be able to celebrate the successes of the regiment in its first ten years and the dedication and commitment of its soldiers in their role keeping the people of Great Britain safe.

"The Mercian Regiment's links with the city of Worcester are very strong, with soldiers from the area serving in the regiment.

"It will be great for us to be able to thank the people of Worcestershire for their support for our antecedent regiments and the Mercian Regiment.

"To be able to combine the Mercian Freedom Parade with the unveiling of the Dancox memorial makes the day all the more important, drawing together the links between Worcestershire and its county regiment over the last century."

Private Dancox earned the Victoria Cross after he captured 40 German soldiers who had pinned down his battalion with machine gun fire.

However he was not able to collect the honour as he died just over a month later in November 1917.