Soldiers from the Welsh Guards today paid an emotional farewell after leaving Hounslow Cavalry Barracks, where they have spent the last three-and-a-half years.
Monday was the official 'flag down' at the quarters for the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, who have headed to Elizabeth Barracks in Pirbright, Surrey.
The barracks in Beavers Lane, Hounslow West, will remain empty for several months while building work is carried out, before the 1st Battalion Irish Guards move in next year.
Lieutenant Colonel Giles Harris, commanding officer of the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, said: "The battalion has thoroughly enjoyed its good relationship with the people of Hounslow.
"The support we have received from the local community over the last three and a half years has made us feel very welcome and I am sure this will continue to be the case when 1st Battalion Irish Guards move into Cavalry Barracks next year."
The battalion faced a tough tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2012, during which three Guardsmen and two soldiers serving with the battalion were killed.
The troops were given a heroes' welcome as they paraded through Hounslow on their return, and later that year received a visit from Prince Charles, who presented them with operational service medals.
Four Guardsmen later picked up top awards for their bravery in Afghanistan, including one who gave life-saving first aid during an enemy onslaught.
The battalion has built strong links with the local community during its stay in Hounslow, and received strong support in the wake of British soldier Lee Rigby's beheading, which led to tightened security at military quarters across the country.
Earlier this year, the Welsh Guards were deployed to the Falkland Islands, where they paid their respects to 32 of their number killed when British warship Sir Galahad was sunk by an Argentinian bomber.
More recently its troops visited Kenya, where after completing gruelling training exercises they joined the war against poachers.
While in London, their ceremonial duties have included lining the route of Margaret Thatcher's funeral procession and trooping their colour on the Queen's Birthday Parade last year, which they will again be doing next year as they celebrate their centenary.
