NEARLY 400 Gwent-based soldiers showed their respect for a departing commanding officer yesterday when they ran across the Severn Bridge as part of a farewell celebration.

The members of the First Battalion The Rifles, based at Beachley barracks, Chepstow, rose early to honour Lieutenant Colonel David Brown with the 8am run.

The soldiers, including 42-year-old Colonel Brown crossed the border from Wales to England before returning to the barracks.

Colonel Brown was later given a traditional escort off the barracks by boat when he was towed around the barracks in one of the Severn Area Rescue Association's boats before sailing off to pastures new.

He has overseen the merging of two regiments to form the "One Rifles" last year and is moving to a new post in Abbey Wood.

The 600-man regiment has been based at Chepstow since August last year.

Captain Damian Flanagan, who took part in the run, said: "It was great to go out in the community and be seen to be out there.

"It was a fitting send off for a man who has worked tirelessly to bring together two regiments and ensure that one rifles is at the forefront of military activities."