ORGANISERS are working on detailed arrangements for what promises to be one of the biggest civic celebrations in Somerset this year when The Rifles Regiment is given the Freedom of Wellington.

Plans are being drawn up  ahead of members of the British Army’s largest infantry regiment marching through the town on June 17, in an honour granted in recognition of its links with Wellington dating back nearly 400 years. 

The Rifles will parade through the town from Wellington School from about 2pm and stop in the centre for the official Freedom ceremony. The parade will then continue through the town before returning to the starting point.

Part of the discussions between all of the interested parties including Wellington Town Council, The Rifles and the various emergency and security services have looked at what to do in the event of severe adverse weather on the day of the parade.

The issue was discussed at the council’s town centre committee, this week, where it was outlined that only in the unlikely event of serious torrential rain, for example if a Weather Warning is issued, the marching band accompanying The Rifles would not take part due to risk of damage to the instruments. 

If the weather made it impossible for the troops to march, due to a safety risk to them and the public, contingency plans have been drawn up for a static parade instead at Wellington School. The band is believed to be travelling to Europe a day or so after the Wellington event. Councillors heard that the parade could have more than 100 service personnel taking part and it would be a wonderful spectacle and special day for the town.

The council’s assets and events officer, Annette Kirk, said that the roads involved in the route would have to be completely clear of traffic and parked vehicles because of the safety implications.

“Any vehicles parked on the route on the day of the parade will be towed away as a last resort,” she said. 

Warning notices will be placed in the area closer to June 17 to inform people not to park there.

Town clerk Dave Farrow, speaking to the WWN after the meeting, said: “There is a huge amount of detailed planning going in to making sure that the event runs smoothly and is a success.

“As well as working closely with representatives of The Rifles Regiment we are also liaising with local and regional police teams and colleagues from the Highways Authority and the fire and ambulance services.

“We’re making sure that we cover every eventuality from making sure that the route for the parade is clear on the day right the way through to putting in place contingency plans for the ceremony granting the Freedom of the Town in the unlikely event that the weather is so bad that the parade has to be cancelled.”