Guards are down

Coldstream boys celebrate freedom of city of Exeter

by Adam Manning

The troops most famous for protecting Buckingham Palace changed London for Exeter this weekend to exercise their freedom of the city.

They weren’t only marching though. For the past week they've dragon boat raced down the Exe, cycled on the Quay and played a celebratory concert at the Cathedral, raising funds for SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors Air Force Association) that supports families who have lost loved ones, as well as injured servicemen and women.

With freedom of the city comes the privilege of being allowed to fix bayonets and display weapons whilst parading. And although it was more than 20°C on Saturday in Exeter, they naturally donned full ceremonial uniform, complete with famous black bearskin headwear. 

The origin of The Coldstream Guards lies in the English Civil War when Oliver Cromwell gave Colonel George Monk permission to form his own regiment. Lord Monk, the founder of the Coldstream Guards, was Devonian. 

Rob Hannaford, Exeter's Lord Mayor said: “The Coldstream Guards were awarded Freedom of the City in 2011 because of their special connection with Lord Monk living in Exeter for many years. And watching youth organisations like the army cadets march with a group as prestigious and well known as the Coldstream guards was very special”

The evening concert by the band of the Coldstream Guards mixed military standards with well-known movie themes and sing-along tunes.