Arundel ‘honoured’ by troops’ freedom march

Dozens of soldiers from the regiment, led by the regimental band, exercised their freedom of Arundel on their first return to the town in almost a decade.

Crowds four or five people deep lined the streets to witness the spectacle as the troops, known as The Tigers, paraded out of Mill Road, along Town Quay and into High Street.

The servicemen continued their march, passing into Tarrant Street before turning into Maltravers Street and then coming back down the hill, into High Street, where a service was held at the war memorial in Town Square.

Arundel mayor Michael Tu said it was both an ‘honour’ and ‘privilege’ to welcome the soldiers back to the town.

“It was a super day and another big one for the town of Arundel,” admitted Mr 
Tu.

“People seemed genuinely proud to have the troops parade through the town.

“And Arundel is by far the smallest place that the regiment has exercised its freedom. So it really was a great privilege and honour to have them visit us.”

Arundel was among six other places in the south-east to be visited by the soldiers, which included Godalming, Chichester, Tunbridge Wells, Folkestone, Barnet, finishing in Winchester, on Monday.

During the service at the memorial, Mr Tu spoke briefly about the history of the regiment, its freedom and how he had presented four Afghan service medals to members from the regiment, last year.

Other dignitaries who attended the event included Georgina, Duchess of Norfolk, Colonel Charlie Sykes who spoke during the service, West Sussex High Sheriff Patrick Burgess, as well as former Arundel mayors and current-serving town councillors.

Mr Tu added: “What a difference a year makes. This time last year we were welcoming the Olympic Torch to the town in the pouring rain.

“So what a contrast this weekend was, with its sunshine and heat.”