Soldiers Parade Through Stamford

13 July 2011, 14:12 | Updated: 13 July 2011, 14:33

Servicemen and women from RAF Wittering have exercised their Freedom of the town of Stamford.

Troops from the base were granted the Honorary Freedom of Stamford in 1961.

Wednesday's march was a celebration of the base holding that freedom for 50 years.

Soldiers formed up in Broad Street at around 10:30am, before marching towards Browne's Hospital "with bayonets fixed, bands playing and colours flying" where they were met by dignitaries including the Mayor of Stamford.

At around 11am, a Spitfire aircraft flew overhead, making several passes of the town.

RAF Wittering Commander Graham Hill talks to Heart's Tom Horn.

The soldiers then continued their march towards Stamford Town Hall.

Members of the armed forces that took part in the first march through the town in 1961 were VIPs during the events.

Group Captain Graham Hill, who has recently taken over as RAF Wittering's Station Commander said: "I am very proud to be Station Commander during this significant anniversary parade.

Stamford Mayor Councillor John Binder speaks to Heart's Tom Horn.

I am mindful of the  original citation on the Freedom Scroll which granted us this honour 'in recognition of the glorious achievements in peace and in war', and the long association and cordial relationships which have existed between Stamford and RAF Wittering'.