British Army battalion to exercise freedom of Whitby in historic town parade

Whitby Town Council is inviting residents and visitors to line the streets on Saturday July 25, to watch the Freedom of Whitby Parade.

This will mark the formal granting of the Honorary Freedom of the Town to 1 Close Support Battalion, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (1 CS Bn REME).

Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers at Whitby's War Memorial at Dock End.

placeholder image — Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers at Whitby's War Memorial at Dock End.

The Freedom of the Town is the highest civic honour that Whitby Town Council can bestow.

The parade represents the formal granting and exercise of that honour, with serving soldiers marching through the town with colours flying, bands playing, drums beating and bayonets fixed.

REME taking part in a memorial service at Dock End.

The parade will assemble at Church Street Car Park before setting off at 11.30am, proceeding via the Swing Bridge, New Quay Road, Bagdale and Chubb Hill before arriving at Pannett Park at arond noon, where the Freedom Parade Ceremony will take place.

The Town Mayor of Whitby, Cllr Sandra Turner, said: “This will be a proud and memorable occasion for Whitby.

"The Freedom Parade provides an opportunity for our community to recognise the outstanding service of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, celebrate their long-standing relationship with our town and show our appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of all those who serve in our Armed Forces.

“I would encourage as many people as possible to come along and support this special civic event and give 1 CS Bn REME a fitting Whitby welcome as they exercise the Freedom of the Town.”

A rolling road closure will be in operation along the route.

Motorists are asked to plan their journeys accordingly and to follow the directions of event stewards and police officers on the day.