Granting of the Freedom of Entry to the Royal British Legion – Market Drayton Branch

Deputy Lieutenant Martin Stevens represented  HM Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire at the Granting of the Freedom of Entry to The Town of Market Drayton by Market Drayton Town Council to The Royal British Legion Market Drayton Branch.   

The Little Voice Choir provided entertainment before the official proceedings commenced.  Martin Stevens  DL laid a wreath which was commissioned from the Town Florist Shop in the High Street.  The Lieutenancy wreath was arranged in the County colours of Yellow and Blue.  The second wreath was laid by the Mayor of Market Drayton Councillor, Mr Roy Aldrcoft.  The third wreath was laid by, Major (Retd) Ian Nellins QGM BEM, Chairman of The Royal British Legion.  The fourth by Mr Ken Lough, President The Royal British Legion – Market Drayton Club. 

There was a two minutes silence in honour of the fallen. The Reveille was performed by The Silver Buglers of The Light Infantry Association.  The Kohima Epitaph was  by Mr Philip Miles of the Royal British Legion – Market Drayton.  The Lament was performed by Mr A Kirby. Pipe Major (Retd) 1^st Bn The Royal Irish Regiment. 

The Revd Catherine McBride gave Blessings and Prayers and announced the Hymn, Onward Christian Soldiers. 

The Town Crier read out the Citation of the Freedom Scroll.  The scroll was received from the Mayor by M W. Timmis – Ex Kings Shropshire Light Infantry, the eldest member of Market Drayton Royal British Legion.  There was a salute from the sky – a flyover by the only remaining Avro Anson Aircraft, Flying in the World, piloted by Mr Glen James. 

The National Anthem was sung.  Following the proceedings at the War Memorial, celebrations continued at the Royal British Legion Club, where further presentations were given and toasts.  Martin Stevens DL gave the Loyal Toast.