Congleton Welcomes Prinses Irene Brigade for Remembrance Sunday

For decades, Dutch soldiers from the Prinses Irene Brigade have travelled to Congleton to take part in Remembrance Sunday, reflecting the town’s long and proud connection with the brigade.

The regiment was formed in Congleton in 1941, when young Dutch soldiers, having escaped their occupied homeland, were housed in the town to continue the fight for liberation. Their presence led to several royal visits, including one where Prince Bernhard presented the regiment with its new colours on the Fairground, now part of Congleton Town Centre near the library. The connection is still remembered today, with Dutch soldiers and their families becoming part of Congleton’s history.

Congleton Town Mayor, Cllr Robert Brittain said:

"Our connection with the Prinses Irene Brigade is a proud part of Congleton’s history. Each year, we are honoured to welcome them back to join us on Remembrance Sunday, continuing a tradition that has linked our communities for over 80 years."

The Remembrance Sunday parade will form at West Street Car Park from 10am, departing at 10.30am and following the usual route along West Street, Swan Bank, the pedestrian area, High Street, Market Square, and Bank Street, arriving at the Cenotaph on Lawton Street at 10.50am. The 11am service, conducted by Revd. Ian Enticott, Rector of All Saints Congleton, will include the laying of poppy wreaths.

Wreath enquiries can be made via William Brownlee, RBL, at:

willieandviv@hotmail.com

07747 668 363.

To allow the parade to march safely to the Cenotaph, there will be temporary 15-minute rolling road closures between 10.30am and 10.50am on West Street, Swan Bank, Mill Street, Moody Street and Market Street. Full road closures will be in place on High Street, Canal Street, Kinsey Street, Bank Street and Market Square from 10am - 12.30pm. Motorists are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.

On Armistice Day, Tuesday 11th November, everyone is warmly invited to gather at the Cenotaph from 10.45am for a short service of remembrance. At 11am, the town will pause for a two-minute silence to honour and reflect on the service and sacrifices made by members of the Armed Forces on our behalf. The brief ceremony offers a moment for the community to come together in gratitude and remembrance.

For more information contact Congleton Information Centre on:

01260 270 350 ext 1

...or email:

info@congleton-tc.gov.uk