Oakham parade marks Freedom of Entry for squadron

The Freedom of Entry to Oakham was granted to a reservist squadron during a special ceremony.

Oakham Town Council decided to bestow the honour on the E Squadron Derbyshire and Leicestershire Yeomanry.

This was to recognise the long-standing association between the squadron and the town and the services its members have performed.

The granting of the freedom also marks 100 years since the Battle of Frezenberg during the First World War, where soldiers from the Leicestershire Yeomanry fought and many made the ultimate sacrifice.

A church service was held at All Saints’ Church in Oakham on Sunday last week to mark the Freedom which was attended by the Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Laurence Howard, the High Sheriff of Rutland Andrew Brown and the leader of Rutland County Council Roger Begy (Con).

After the service, the squadron made up of about 30 members marched from the church to the Market Place, led by its own band.

Deputy mayor of Oakham Adam Lowe said it was particularly poignant for him as he served with the Yeomanry himself 20 years ago.

He said: “The event went seamlessly and the church was packed.

“The town council decided to bestow the honour more for the historical element and for that reason there weren’t as many people lining the streets as we normally see but there was still a good turnout.”

Coun Lowe said the squadron, in particular its Colonel Robert Boyle, really appreciated the honour.

Afterwards, dignitaries and members of the squadron enjoyed light refreshments at Rutland County Museum, which recently hosted a display on the Battle of Frezenberg and The Leicestershire Yeomanry’s part in it.