Wittering Troops March In Peterborough

20 July 2011, 12:33 | Updated: 20 July 2011, 14:22

Service personnel from RAF Wittering marched through Peterborough today (Wednesday).

Hundreds of people turned out to watch airmen and women from RAF Wittering exercise their right to the freedom of the city, which they were granted in April 1983.

The honour allows the service personnel 'to proceed at their will through the city of Peterborough on ceremonial occasions with bayonets fixed, colours flying, drums beating and bands playing'.

Peterborough Mayor Councillor Paula Thacker joined RAF Wittering Station Commander Group Captain Richard Hill for the general salute on Cathedral Square before leading the march past the Town Hall and into St Peter's road via Bourges Boulevard.

The Mayor said "I get emotional at this type of event because obviously the troops are fighting for us out in different countries and then they return and we have to thank then for all that they've done for us".

Group Commander Richard Hill added "I thought it was an extremely good turn out, lots of people in the cathedral square, quite a lot of people in front of the Town Hall.

All very enthusiastic, seemed to be enjoying the parade and the music and it was great to see".