Navy personnel from RNAS Culdrose exercised their right to march through the streets of Helston with ‘swords drawn, bayonets fixed, drums beating, bands playing and colours flying’ today (Thursday September 20).

The parade, held annually, was of particular significance this year as 2018 marks 60 years since the Borough of Helston granted HMS Seahawk the privilege of Freedom of the Town.

Platoons from the air station stood to attention ready for inspection by the mayor of Helston, councillor John Martin and captain Anthony Rimington, commanding officer of RNAS Culdrose. Following the inspection, mayor Martin and captain Rimington addressed the platoons as members of the public watched on.

The importance of the Freedom of Helston parade and the ties between the local community and Royal Naval personnel of RNAS Culdrose were prominent features of both speeches.

Mayor Martin said: “I am sure that all of you like me, have a great respect for the honour of this day. The air station plays an important part in the life and economy of Helston, not only for the employment of civilian workers, but also socially, and I hope this ceremony strengthens the ties between us. Long may this relationship remain.”

In his address, Captain Rimington said: “We at the air station do not underestimate the importance of this event and the trust and confidence that the town expresses to the men and women of the air station. It is those linkages which exist so strongly between Helston and the air station which I would like to reflect on today. I think we are in a unique position to celebrate those strong linkages and we have the opportunity to celebrate with you some of the major events at the air station as and when they occur, with you, our nearest neighbours.”

He added: “To march through the town with bayonets fixed, colours flying and drums beating, is the greatest honour that a town can bestow on a military establishment. For that, we at HMS Seahawk remain hugely proud and I thank you for the honour that you do us.”

Despite the grey skies and some infamous Cornish drizzle, there was plenty of support for the parade from the local community; applause and cheers of encouragement could be heard as the parade marched through the town.

Staff from businesses in the town stopped their work to stand and watch the parade pass by, while children from the local schools lined the pavements of Coinagehall Street waving flags and shouting their support as the naval personnel marched past.

The Freedom of Helston is a historic honour which dates back to the time when fortress walls were necessary to protect the inhabitants of the town from the incursions of outlaw bands and the attacks of feudal lords. Bodies of armed men were refused entry into the town unless the citizens were confident that they meant no harm.

Therefore, the granting of permission for a formed body of armed men, such as a platoon of naval personnel, to enter a town became a mark of the trust and confidence in which that body was held by the citizens of the town.

The support shown for this 60th anniversary Freedom of Helston parade demonstrates how valued the personnel of RNAS Culdrose are by the local community of Helston.