Battalion to adopt Hungerford as its official ‘home town’

And it’s going to a “big day,” according to town mayor Martin Crane.
The battalion has asked to adopt Hungerford as its official ‘home town’ - and the affiliation will be cemented at the special event on Saturday, February 8.
Already its soldiers have been volunteering at civic events, with a team helping Christmas lights supremo Rod Desmeules last December, and its commanding officer switching on the display.
At a recent meeting of the full town council, Roger Thompson said: “Six Battalion, based at Tidworth, have asked us if they can become associated with the town and have demonstrated they are very much prepared to become involved with its activities.
“In Afghanistan they are responsible for keeping equipment moving no matter what the conditions - they keep the show on the road. I’m very proud that they’ve decided to be associated with this town.”
Mr Thompson said the town was chosen because Hungerford is the nearest large town to Tidworth currently unadopted by a military organisation and also because the commanding officer’s wife is a graduate of the Norland Nursery Training College which used to have its premises just outside the town.
He added: “And also, of course, because it’s a wonderful town.”
It is planned that the parade will start at the World War Two memorial, then proceed down Bulpit Lane and along Priory Road before reaching the High Street.
Once it reaches the Town Hall, there will be a salute before the oparade proceeds into Church Street, where the car park will be closed for the duration and turned into a parade ground.
Town mayor Martin Crane will then formally welcome the battalion and say a few words and the Hungerford Town Band will accompany the proceedings.
Arrangements are now underway to organise road closures and road signs and it is enivisaged that the High Street will be closed for up to 10 minutes while the soliders, with bayonets fixed, make their way along it.
The event has been provisionally scheduled to start at 1.30pm, but this may change after a meeting this week to confirm details.
Mr Crane said: “We’re working with the Town and Manor of Hungerford and the Chamber of Commerce - this is something for the town as a whole.
“I hope the Scouts and Guides will be involved and that as many people as possible come out to see the troops.
“This is something to be proud of and will seal the town’s affiliation with the battalion.
“It’s going to be a big day!”