Harrow’s mayor led the service at a parade celebrating two youth groups’ Freedom of the Borough.
The event took place on February 15, with Mayor Anjana Patel leading the civic party through Harrow town centre for the parade, which honoured 1454 Harrow Squadron and the Roxeth & Harrow Company Church Lads’ and Church Girls’ Brigade.
Generations of cadets and brigade members gathered to mark their right to march from Greenhill Way to the Harrow town centre war memorial, a privilege granted to both groups as recipients of the Freedom of the Borough in 1993 and 2014.
This was the first parade since 2014, where the 1454 (Harrow) Squadron Air Training Corps were granted their ‘Freedom of Entry’.
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Cllr Patel said: “The Freedom of the Borough is the highest honour the London Borough of Harrow can bestow and a powerful reminder of our community’s pride and spirit.
“The parade is a visible reminder of the strong bond between Harrow and 1454 (Harrow) Squadron Air Training Corps and the Roxeth & Harrow Company, Church Lads’ and Church Girls’ Brigade.
“It is a powerful symbol of service, commitment and community spirit.
“I thank all cadets, members, officers, leaders, volunteers and families for your dedication over the years. I wish you every success for the future and extend my best wishes on this memorable and celebratory occasion.”
1454 Harrow Squadron is currently celebrating 85 years of service, during which time generations of cadets have benefited from the opportunities and life skills provided by its volunteers.
Flight Lieutenant Jordy Black, Officer Commanding 1454 (Harrow) Squadron, said: “This parade is an enormous honour for the squadron and recognises the commitment and achievements of generations of cadets and volunteers.
“For 85 years, the squadron has provided opportunities that develop confidence, leadership and teamwork in young people across Harrow.
“To exercise the Freedom of the Borough is a proud and historic moment for everyone connected with 1454 Squadron, and we are grateful for the continued support from the community and our partner organisations.”
The Roxeth & Harrow Company Church Lads’ and Church Girls’ Brigade has a history spanning more than 130 years, supporting youth development through faith and community service.
Captain Terry Hissey, commanding officer of the Roxeth & Harrow Company, said: “It is a matter of great pride to the Company that it is belatedly celebrating our 130th Anniversary with this Freedom Parade. From Gaslit Victorian Roxeth to the online South Harrow of today, the Brigade has never ceased to bring good news to young people.
“As the first civilian recipients of the Freedom of the Borough in 1994, it is very satisfying that the same recognition has been bestowed upon our neighbours”.
The mayor inspected the parade before the new 1454 Squadron standard was blessed by Reverend Michael Child, chaplain of Essex Wing Air Training Corps.
The service concluded with the Middlesex Wing Band ATC playing the national anthem and a ceremonial march past.