PEOPLE living near RAF Brize Norton were last night preparing to honour the country’s fallen soldiers in their own way.

The air station was yesterday confirmed as the new location where soldiers killed in action overseas will be returned to the UK.

It will take over the role from RAF Lyneham, in Wiltshire, which is due to close on September 30.

Wootton Bassett has become a focal point for hundreds of people to gather to pay their respects to those killed in Afghanistan.

But Jim Lewendon, vice-president of the Royal British Legion in Oxfordshire, said he did not think Oxfordshire would be able to recreate the same role.

He said: “I think that’s finished – I don’t think there’s anywhere they can do it in Oxfordshire. I think it’s a shame because it’s something so many people go to from all over the county.”

The route of the repatriations has not yet been decided, but Carterton and Bampton could be affected.

Carterton mayor Norman MacRae said: “The town council will start to liaise with parties and, over the course, make sure that each and every Repatriation is marked in the solemn and dignified manner that respects both the fallen and their families.”

A decision on the route will ultimately be made by Oxfordshire County Council and Thames Valley Police.

Jim Couchman, county councillor for Burford and Carterton North East, believes the route would exit RAF Brize Norton from the east, before driving along Carterton Road, Monahan Way and Minster Road. It would then enter the A40, driving towards the John Radcliffe Hospital, in Oxford.

He said Brize Norton village was too narrow and Carterton had a Thursday market, which would cause traffic problems.

Both sites also have speed humps.

Peter Handley, West Oxfordshire district councillor for Carterton North West, said: “I hope provision will be allowed for people to be able to stand and pay their respects.”

Prime Minister and Witney MP David Cameron was urged to lead future tributes to fallen troops in Carterton in the House of Commons yesterday by Tory MP James Gray, whose constituency includes Wootton Bassett.

Mr Cameron said: “Already there is quite a demonstration of solidarity and support outside the John Radcliffe Hospital. I will certainly bear in mind what he says.”

County council deputy leader David Robertson said: “Our aim is to make sure relatives are afforded the maximum respect and dignity.”

Repatriation ceremonies were originally held at RAF Brize Norton, but were moved to RAF Lyneham in April 2007 to allow the aircraft parking area to be redeveloped.

In the past, inquests had to take place in the town or city nearest where the deceased landed.

In 2006, this led to a backlog of up to three years on inquests in Oxford.

But council spokesman Paul Smith said coroners could now choose whether to do the inquest in Oxford or in the deceased’s home town.