The Warminster-based 3rd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment, began its tour in Afghanistan on Sunday, two days after the first funeral of six men killed there in March.

The battalion, based in Battlesbury Barracks, have taken over security in Nahr-e Saraj (South) in Helmand Province from 5th Battalion, The Rifles.

Lieutenant Colonel Zac Stenning shook hands with Rifles commander Lt Col Tom Copinger-Symes to signify the official handover of the district, the last British zone not transferred to Afghan control.

He said: “We have been gifted the perfect start, especially with regard to the excellent relationships that have been formed with the Afghan National Security Forces.

“We look forward to continuing the mission this summer in support of the Afghan National Security Forces and continuing working towards transition.”

The battalion are due to return to the UK in November.

Funerals of three of the six soldiers killed by a Taliban bomb in March have been held in Lancashire and West Yorkshire.

On Friday last week the funeral of Sergeant Nigel Coupe was held in the parish church of his home town, St Annes in Lancashire.

Sgt Coupe, of 1st Battalion, The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, was attached to 3 Yorks and serving with Corunna Company with the other men who died.

He leaves his wife Natalie and two children, Ella and Jasmine.

The first of the 3 Yorks funerals was for Corporal Jake Hartley on Monday, held at Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth.

On Wednesday a full military funeral was held for Private Anthony Frampton in Huddersfield Parish Church.

The same church will see the funeral of Pte Daniel Wilford today as both men hailed from the town.

A memorial service will be held at 3pm on Sunday, May 13, at Huddersfield Parish Church, for the community to pay their respects.

The funerals of Ptes Daniel Wade and Christopher Kershaw will take place in St Elphin Parish Church, Warrington, on May 11 and Holy Trinity Parish Church, Bradford, on May 24, respectively.