FINAL preparations are being put in place for tomorrows historic march by the 2nd Battalion Mercian Regiment.
Bunting is hanging, flags are flying and organisers — the Ashbourne Branch of the Royal British Legion — are putting the finishing touches to the immaculately prepared welcome the town is expected to give the 220 heroes.
Everyone in Ashbourne is once again urged to line the streets, but organisers have asked people to leave areas free for schools — including the pavement by the Methodist’s Church in Church Street and outside St Oswald’s School in Mayfield Road.
The soldiers are due to arrive in the Market Place, which will be closed to traffic, at around 10am on Thursday and are set to begin their march at around 10.20am.
They will march through Church Street to St Oswald’s Church where they will assemble for a short service at around 10.45am — leaving again at around 11.30am.
Candles will be lit in church to represent and honour each of their fallen comrades.
Following the service the soldiers and all their followers will start another march back to the Market Place where they are due to be dismissed at around noon.
While most soldiers will then be invited in to the Green Man in St John Street for a reception, some are expected to spend time walking around the town meeting families and shoppers to talk to them about the regiment.
Union Jack flags are on sale now in at least three Ashbourne stores, Cannon’s Newsagents in the Market Place and Lumbards Toy Shop in Victoria Square have been stocking them for a few weeks, while Hallmark in St John Street always stocks a range of flags.
Organisers say they are immensely grateful for all the donations, which have been flooding in since the march was announced, and they only have a small way to go before their target is reached.
To pledge support, or make a donation call British Legion secretary Tony Millward on 01335 346426.
Donations can also be left at the News Telegraph office, and we will pass them on.
