The switch of 23 Pioneer Regiment’s ‘homecoming’ parade from Bicester to Oxford because of the redevelopment of the town centre is a shame, but every cloud has a silver lining.

While Bicester people will miss out on their chance to give the troops a well-deserved salute for their efforts, Oxford people will get a rare chance to show their appreciation.

The last time troops marched through the city was in 2006 – a surprisingly long time.

Oxford has shown it is prepared to turn out to honour troops with the exemplary attendances on the approach to the John Radcliffe Hospital for the repatriation of fallen service personnel.

It is often overlooked that city residents started this tradition spontaneously several years ago, independent of any outside influences.

And we are confident the city will step in proudly to ‘substitute’ for Bicester on Wednesday, April 4.

Troops will be lining up in Parks Road at 10.30am before marching through to Broad Street.

We’d encourage you to attend if you get the chance, to show to troops it doesn’t take their death for our community to really appreciate their efforts.