RNAS Culdrose celebrates 60 years of the Freedom of Helston

Naval 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’.

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

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.

The Freedom of Helston is a historic honour which dates back to the time when fortress walls were necessary to protect the inhabitants from the incursions of outlaw bands and the attacks of feudal Lords.