Parade as battalion granted freedom of town

People have been invited to line the streets of Whitby for a parade celebrating a civic honour being granted to a local Army battalion.

1 Close Support Battalion, Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (1 CS Bn REME) will be awarded the honorary freedom of the town by Whitby Town Council.

It is the highest civic honour the local authority can bestow, recognising exceptional contributions to public life.

The Town Mayor of Whitby, councillor Sandra Turner, encouraged "as many people as possible" to come down to the parade which would be a "proud and memorable occasion" for the town.

She said the parade was a chance to "recognise the outstanding service of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, celebrate their long-standing relationship with our town, and show our appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of all those who serve in our armed forces".

The parade will assemble at Church Street Car Park at 11:30 BST and go via the Swing Bridge, New Quay Road, Bagdale and Chubb Hill.

The official ceremony will begin after the procession arrives at Pannett Park at about noon.

The council said a rolling closure would be in operation along the route and said drivers should follow instructions of police and stewards on the day.

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North