Sailors from RNAS Culdrose and other organisations paraded through the village of Madron in Cornwall to commemorate the anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar and honour the memory of Vice Admiral Lord Nelson. The annual thanksgiving parade and service, held on the Sunday closest to October 21st, saw personnel march to St Maddern’s Church, the site of the first such service over two centuries ago.
Key Takeaways
- The event marked the anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar and the death of Lord Nelson.
- Sailors from RNAS Culdrose participated in the parade and service.
- The parade concluded at St Maddern’s Church, which hosted the first thanksgiving service.
- Local dignitaries, including the Mayor of Penzance, attended the commemoration.
A Historic Commemoration
The village of Madron in West Cornwall became the focal point for a significant naval commemoration as it hosted its annual Trafalgar Day thanksgiving parade and service. Personnel from Royal Naval Air Station Culdrose, alongside members of the Sea Cadets, Royal Naval Association, and Royal British Legion, marched through the village streets. Despite the rain, the procession, accompanied by the HMS Seahawk Volunteer Band, paid tribute to Britain’s pivotal 1805 naval victory and the heroism of Vice Admiral Lord Nelson, who was fatally wounded during the battle.
Tradition and Community Spirit
The parade’s destination was St Maddern’s Church, a location deeply connected to the event’s history, having hosted the inaugural thanksgiving service shortly after the Battle of Trafalgar over 200 years ago. The tradition stems from news of Nelson’s death and the fleet’s success being relayed by HMS Pickle to fishermen, who then carried the message to Madron. The Nelson Banner, unfurled during that first procession, continues to be a preserved custom.
Dignitaries and Local Support
Among the attendees was the Mayor of Penzance, Stephen Reynolds, who expressed his honour at participating. He highlighted the importance of celebrating not only the heroism of Nelson and today’s armed forces but also the local community that keeps the tradition alive. Hugh Eddy, Chairman of Madron Parish Council, emphasised the event’s significance for community spirit, allowing villagers to see and interact with the Royal Navy up close. Following the church service, Captain James Hall, commanding officer of RNAS Culdrose, took the salute as the parade passed Landithy Hall.
Councillor Penny Osborne also represented Penzance Council at the event.
Sources
- Parade and service in Cornwall village honours Lord Nelson, BBC.
- Royal Navy parades through Cornish village to honour Trafalgar Day, Cornwall Live.
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Royal Navy Marches Through Cornish Village Honouring Nelson and Trafalgar Victory