Remembering those who gave everything

A SPECIAL Remembrance Day ceremony took place to remember three regiments who were based near Royston. On Tuesday a tree was planted in the Priory Memorial Gardens in honour of the Royal Anglians, Queens Regiment, and Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, all of w

A SPECIAL Remembrance Day ceremony took place to remember three regiments who were based near Royston.

On Tuesday a tree was planted in the Priory Memorial Gardens in honour of the Royal Anglians, Queens Regiment, and Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, all of whom were stationed at Bassingbourn Barracks. A plaque was also unveiled.

Chris Murphy, acting chairman of the Royston Royal British Legion, said: "We think this is a fitting tribute, and it is a great location in the memorial gardens.

"Lots of people will walk past it and see it every day.

"It's only right and proper that we have a lasting tribute to the regiments. They have fought for their country all over the world, and while they were here, always had strong ties to the community in Royston and the surrounding area."

The ceremony was attended by Cllr Paul Grimes, mayor of Royston, Cllr Allison Ashley, chairman of North Herts District Council, and Cllr Nigel Brooks, chairman of Herts County Council.

Major Gavin Jones from Bassingbourn Barracks conducted the tree planting.

He was a platoon commander in the Queen's Regiment during its time at Bassingbourn.

Last Sunday saw the traditional remembrance parade take place through Royston, culminating in a service at the war memorial.

Mr Murphy said: "We had a higher than usual turn out for the parade and service.

"It was good to see so many people paying their respects 90 years after the Great War ended."

A service also took place at the American war memorial in Royston, while wreaths were laid at other memorials in surrounding villages, including Steeple Morden and Melbourn.