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Coldstream Guards mark 375th anniversary

1 month ago 2

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Evie Lake

BBC News, North East and Cumbria

PA Media A group of guards sitting on a train with red seats. They are wearing the red uniform with yellow shoulders. They are smiling and chatting, one man has his had on the shoulder of another.

To mark the 375th anniversary of the regiment's formation, the Coldstream Guards boarded a train in London and travelled back to its birthplace in Berwick-upon-Tweed, where crowds lined the streets to welcome the guardsmen home.

In full ceremonial dress, the oldest continuously serving regiment in the British Army paraded through the border town with the Band of the Coldstream Guards.

PA Media The guards marching through Kings Cross train station's concourse in full uniform. Most are holding musical instruments. The concourse is largely empty.

PA Media A guard in full uniform playing the trumpet in Kings Cross station. A large group of guards are standing behind him out of focus.

PA Media Seven guards walking alongside a white and red LNER train in full uniform. They are holding black, large guns.

The regiment was formed in Berwick in 1650, but in 1660 marched down to London to help restore the monarchy, dissolve Parliament and bring Charles II back to the throne.

Back then, the journey took five weeks. Tuesday's trip, by contrast, took just a few hours - with the guards back in London by evening.

PA Media The guards on the train in their uniforms with their hats above them on the luggage racks. One guard is standing up in front of her seat and smiling. Guards around her are chatting and smiling.

PA Media Some guards through the train window. Two of them are smiling into the camera while sat on train seats. They are not wearing their hats and people around them are stood up.

Following the parade, the guardsmen attended a Service of Thanksgiving at Berwick Parish Church.

The soldiers were joined by the Colonel of the Regiment, Lieutenant General Sir James Bucknall, and the Mayor of Berwick at the Guildhall for an inspection and civic reception.

Formed in 1650 during the English Civil War, the regiment has served in every major conflict since and earned 113 battle honours and 13 Victoria Crosses.

After returning to London, the regiment will be presented with new Colours at Windsor Castle before taking centre stage at Trooping the Colour on 14 June, where they will troop the new flags for the King's official birthday.