Prince's poignant Gurkha tribute

THE Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh made history by becoming the first members of the Royal Family to attend the annual Gurkha event that marks the moment young Nepalis join the British Army.

- By Emily Ferguson Royal Editor, in Pokhara

Sophie and Edward congratulated the new recruits and even exchanged hugs with members of their families at the end of the ceremony.

In a moving speech, the Prince said: "Always remember you are a soldier in the British army but you are a son of Nepal. Be proud of both."

Service

The attestation parade comes at the end of a competitive selection process - with just 275 graduating yesterday after 13,000 applied.

The Nepali recruits take the oath of allegiance to signify the moment they are officially under command "in the Army".