Prince Charles has honoured Territorial Army soldiers who served in Iraq in the grounds of his private Scottish home.

Around 40 troops from 51st Highland, 7th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland (7 Scots) joined the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall at Birkhall in Royal Deeside.

The part-time soldiers, who include a bank worker and an agricultural assistant, were specially invited to Birkhall by the Prince.

He is said to have wanted to personally thank them for their efforts during a recent tour of duty in Iraq.

Surrounded by stunning Scottish scenery, the reservists marched up to the front of the 18th century mansion on the Birkhall estate led by the battalion's pipes and drums, playing Scotland the Brave.

Charles and Camilla stood in the building's porch as the troops, dressed in their desert combats, gave the royal salute.

The Prince was introduced to each soldier and presented them with their badges.

Family and friends of the men and women looked on proudly as their relatives spoke to the Prince.

After the ceremony, the troops paraded to a nearby marquee for a more informal reception.

Around 100 men and women from 7 Scots formed Alamein Company, part of a Force Protection company, were deployed in Iraq from November 2006 to May 2007 to prevent Basra Air Station from attack.

© Independent Television News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.