Ripon’s Royal Engineers turn out in force for freedom march and the mayoral installation
The two biggest events on the civic calendar saw Ripon at its best yesterday, as the Royal Engineers turned out in force to celebrate their freedom and the election of Councillor Andrew Williams as the Right Worshipful Mayor of the city.
Mayor Councillor Andrew Williams and his Mayoress Councillor Jackie Crozier led the civic party into the cathedral ⛪.
Cllr Williams’ installation in one of the ornately carved seats in the Quire at our magnificent cathedral saw the continuation of a tradition dating back 422 years to when Hugh Ripley became the first Mayor of Ripon 📜.
It’s 77 years since the Royal Engineers were awarded the freedom of the city in thanks for the vital role they played in the liberation of Europe and other theatres of war across the globe during the 1939–1945 conflict 🌍🕊️.
The mixture of custom and tradition in a heritage‑rich community of military distinction brought another day of spectacular sights and sounds 🎺✨, as more than 150 members of the 21 Engineer Regiment marched around the ancient Market Square with bayonets drawn and standards flying, to the beat of drums played by the musicians of the RE Nottinghamshire Band 🥁.
Cllr Williams, who took to the dais with his Mayoress Councillor Jackie Crozier to salute the march past, told Tim Flanagan of the Rejoicing in Ripon Blog:
“This is a very proud day for Jackie and I. We were both born, bred and educated in our beloved city and want to ensure that it thrives in a way that benefits citizens of all ages.” ❤️
He added:
“We offer particular thanks to the Royal Engineers for their unfailing service to the people of Ripon and to Dean John for his thought‑provoking sermon at my installation.” 🙏
The Dean was appointed as Mayor’s Chaplain at the Mayor‑Making ceremony in Ripon Town Hall on Wednesday evening, when civic dignitaries from across North Yorkshire saw Cllr Williams and Cllr Crozier elected as Mayor and Mayoress 🎖️🏛️.
Ripon BID Manager Lilla Bathurst, who was present at yesterday’s installation service, said:
“To see the Royal Engineers marching around our remarkable city with bayonets drawn and then taking up their seats for prayers at the cathedral, followed by a rousing rendition of the hymn Jerusalem, reminded all of those lucky enough to be part of this occasion that Ripon is a very special place.” 🌟
- The Royal Engineers marched to the beat of the drum.
- The Dean of Ripon the Very Revd John Dobson, with newly installed Mayor Clllr Andrew Williams and members of Ripon City Council.
- The march along Kirkgate made an impressive sight.
- This group of Royal Engineers gathered by the statue of the Marquess of Ripon in Spa Gardens for a memorable photograph.
- Standard bearers marshalled by Jim Phillips, chair of the Ripon branch if the Royal Engineers Association, formed a guard of honour at the cathedral.
- Rousing tunes played by the Royal Engineers Nottinghamshire Band, added to the splendour of the day.
- It was eyes left to the civic dais as the Sappers marched along Market Place East.
