Freedom Parade 2014
Thousands Line the streets
Thousands of people flocked to Accrington yesterday, 1st July, to cheer on 120 soldiers from the 1st Battalion of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, who marched through the town in a spectacular Freedom Parade.
Huge crowds, including schoolchildren and veterans, gathered on Accrington’s streets in the summer sunshine, clapping and cheering the troops as they exercised their Freedom of the Borough. The soldiers marched through the town on their way to the Town Hall, where they were greeted by Hyndburn’s Mayor, Cllr Munsif Dad and Mayors and dignitaries from across Lancashire.
Band of the King’s Division
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The colourful parade was led by the 32-piece Band of The King’s Division as they marched with drums beating and flags flying from St John’s Church, where a poignant service was held prior to the parade.
Kingsmen
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The Freedom Parade took place on the 98th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme where hundreds of Accrington Pals lost their lives, leaving hardly any family in Accrington untouched.
Parade
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Council leader Miles Parkinson said; “The Freedom Parade was a glorious day for Accrington. It’s with great pride that we welcomed the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment on this poignant day for the borough and they’ve done Accrington proud. It was fabulous to see so many people and all the school children come along to show their support for our troops. The whole atmosphere was wonderful, just like the Queens Visit and when the Olympic Torch came to Accrington in 2012. It was a once in a lifetime experience, a spectacular, moving and poignant day. Many thanks to the regiment and to all the thousands of people who came along to show their support and appreciation for our troops.”
Inspecting the Troops
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Colour Party Town Hall
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