TORRENTIAL rain and howling gales did not deter hardy members of the public from turning out to show their support for reserve soldiers from the Duke Of Lancaster's Regiment in Kendal on Saturday.

The 4th Battalion and Band of the Duke of The Duke Of Lancaster's Regiment were grateful to those who braved the truly awful weather to cheer them as they paraded through the town.

The freedom parade set off from County Hall at 11.10am, and the soldiers and band members processed to Kendal Parish Church for a service and some welcome respite from the elements before continuing to Kendal Library for an inspection.

Among their number was Kingsman Ryan Evans, 19, from Millom, who was supported by his mum and sisters.

He he said it was a very proud moment for him and the whole battalion. "It's an honour being part of the regimental history and taking part in a historic event like this," he said.

Having joined the Army Reserve around a year ago, the former Millom School and Barrow Sixth Form pupil is set to combine studying politics at York University with his military career, one he would recommend wholeheartedly to others.

"I'd definitely say give it a go," he said. "You get to do things you never would as a civilian and get to build your skills to make yourself a better person.

"For example I already attempted the Cambrian Patrol, a two-day exercise building on your military skills and seeing how far you can push yourself. Those sorts of opportunities, adventure training and the chance to deploy on operations make it a really exciting career."

The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment has long and close associations with Kendal. The Freedom of Kendal was granted to the regiment's forerunner, the Border Regiment, in 1947, allowing it to march through the town.