THE crew of HMS Monmouth marched through Monmouth on Sunday 20th March to applause from residents and visitors to the town.

The event was to mark the Freedom of the Town given to them in 2004 when they are allowed to march with bayonets fixed.

Beginning in Blestium Street, they took the route over the new Monnow bridge, along Cinderhill Street up Monnow Street to a reception in Agincourt Square where they took the salute from Commodore Toby Elliott OBE, Andrew Tuggey DL, High Sheriff of Gwent and the Mayor of Monmouth, Councillor Graham Pritchard.

Commodore Elliott, Vice Lord-Lieutenant for Gwent, who took the salute with the town mayor said: “It was very good to see HMS Monmouth turn out in force to exercise their freedom rights in the town. It was a very happy occasion, and the presence of so many matelots in the town brought a welcome breath of salt sea air to remind us of the strong link which has been forged over many years between town and ship.”

Mr Tuggey, said; “The close links between the town and its own ship, HMS Monmouth are very special, both for Monmouth and for the ship’s company. No other ship in the fleet has quite the same relationship. It is a relationship to be celebrated and fostered. Long may it continue to enhance our town and communities - and our ship’s company.”  

HMS Monmouth commander Philip Tilden added: “We are immensely proud to be able to execute our freedom of Monmouth on this day.

“Our servicemen and women are proud to be part of this historical link, and appreciate all the support they receive in Monmouth.”

Cllr Graham Pritchard spoke of the highly successful and very special occasion for the town of Monmouth and HMS Monmouth: “For decades there has been a special relationship between the town, the supportive local Royal Naval Association and the ship. They rightly regard the town as their home town.It was a pleasure and honour, as mayor, to formally grant the Freedom of Monmouth to the ship’s company and officers.”

“Long may this link with the ship continue.”