MORE than 100 soldiers and a military band have exercised their freedom to march through Richmond as part of celebrations of the 10th anniversary of the Yorkshire Regiment.

Dozens of spectators lined the streets of Richmond Market Place to see the regiment parade from Nuns Close car park into the town with bayonets fixed, flags flying and the band playing in its third Freedom Parade since 2006.

The Yorkshire Regiment – which was formed in June 2006 with the amalgamation of the Green Howards, Prince of Wales’ Own Regiment of Yorkshire, and the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment – has performed six Freedom Parades in the region from June 21, also celebrating a combined history of 300 years.

Today (Wednesday, June 22) around 150 soldiers of the 2nd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, based at Catterick Garrison, marched through Richmond, led by Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Humphris MBE.

Freedom of the town was first conferred on The Green Howards in 1945 and transferred to today’s Yorkshire Regiment in 2006.

At the town hall the regiment was met with civic dignitaries, including Mayor of Richmond, Cllr Russell Lord.

He said: “It is my honour and privilege to see the Yorkshire Regiment here today to exercise their freedom of Richmond.

“The British Armed Forces are the best in the world and it is an honour for us to recognise their work. On behalf of Richmond, we welcome you and thank all the Yorkshire Regiment.”

Lt Col Humphries addressed the crowds and the soldiers standing to attention in the midday heat – which saw one soldier, overcome with probably dehydration, be forced to exit the ranks and take a seat at the cartilage to Trinity Church opposite the town hall.

Lt Col Humphries said: “I have the honour of being here today, representing the Yorkshire Regiment in the Freedom Parade.

“On behalf of Colonel of the Regiment, Brigadier Andrew Jackson, I would like to convey our gratitude to the mayor and people of Richmond for supporting us on this historic occasion.

“The regiment has been training hard since returning from Cyprus last year and everyone is very pleased to be back in Yorkshire. When we are away it is good to know we have the support of people from back at home.”

On Friday, the regiment will parade through York, welcomed by members of the York Normandy Veterans.