The Mercian Regiment Quarterly Newsletter - Q4 2025 - PART 2

During the half-term school break in October, 10 cadets travelled to Bovington Garrison, Dorset for a STEM-filled week hosted by the Royal Armoured Corps. Interactive stands provided an insight into real-world application of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Several of the Army’s regiments and corps supported the exercise and it was a big step towards fulfilling the Strategic Defence Review’s recommendations for a greater focus on developing STEM skills in cadets.

On Remembrance Sunday, cadets proudly marched in parades across Derbyshire.

In December, detachments were counting down the days to Christmas and celebrating a successful year by way of parties with games and food. But it was the Band and Corps of Drums that truly got everyone in the festive spirit with their annual public concert. The talented musicians entertained with a series of Christmas carols, Regimental music, modern songs and opportunities for audience participation. An exceptional evening that should be experienced by everyone! £500 of the money raised through ticket sales, refreshments and the raffle was donated to The Army Cadet Charitable Trust - the official charity of Army Cadets UK, which makes life-changing opportunities accessible to all young people.

Captain Pete Ward – Director of Music, received a Chief of the General Staff Commendation in the New Year Honours. During 20 years of service to the Army Cadet Force, he has provided countless opportunities to 12 – 18yr old cadets, including performing at the Military Musical Spectacular on Horse Guards Parade, the Rorke’s Drift annual concerts, Menin Gate Last Post ceremony, Chatsworth House concerts and so much more. Captain Ward is the definition of volunteerism, and he shows no signs of giving up anytime soon! We are proud to count him amongst our ranks.

Dates for the 2026 Diary

• 21 Mar: Southern Region Meeanee Dinner - Union Jack Club.
• 11 - 17 Apr: Bosnia Memorial - Wayne Edwards Memorial Service & Ahmići Commemoration.
• 27 Jun: Armed Forces Day
• 27 Jun: Tom Sephton Trophy – Crossfields ARLFC
• 26 Jul: St Julien Service – Stockport
• 23 Aug: TBC - Audregnies Service, Battle of Mons
• 24 Aug: Mons Wreath Laying – Chester Cathedral.
• 27 - 31 Aug: ‘Acorn’ Camping Event
• 06 Sep: CRA Service of Remembrance – NMA
• 24 Oct: East Cheshire Reunion – Stockport (date TBC)
• 05 Nov: Field of Remembrance – London
• 08 Nov: Remembrance Sunday
• 04 Dec: Droppin’ Well Service of Remembrance – Chester Cathedral
• 06 Dec: Droppin’ Well Memorial Service – Ballykelly

EDITH CAVELL MEMORIAL On 12th October we represented the CRA at the annual commemoration of Edith Cavell’s death. It is always a moving occasion, with representatives from the Royal London Hospital, the Belgian Embassy, the Royal British Legion and Cavell Nurses Trust. This year Tony Twiss laid the wreath on behalf of the CRA.

CENOTAPH This year we found ourselves in Column B and the third column to march past the Cenotaph. It is always a long time of standing and waiting, so it was a relief to be one of the first columns to march and to get back onto Horse Guards Parade. Marching past the Cenotaph is an experience and the large crowds and massed bands of the Household Division always makes the hairs on the neck stand up. Afterwards we enjoyed an excellent lunch in the Two Chairmen public house. We are very grateful to all who supported us on the day and helped to keep alive memories of the Cheshire Regiment.

Derby Branch Derby Branch has enjoyed two social events since the last newsletter, namely the annual Dinner held on Alma Day, and a Christmas Curry Lunch. Both events were well supported and enjoyed by all. Our entertainments committee excelled themselves in arranging the events.   This year, two senior Army Cadets from Derbyshire ACF have proudly carried our Standards at the Remembrance parades, and we thank them for aiding us.   We have a hard core of members who, come rain, come shine, appear at the monthly meetings and support the monthly raffles. The meetings are relatively informal, although the Chair sometimes has had cause to “gavel” members who get a little “out of hand” especially those who forget to put in their hearing aids! We welcome all serving and former members of the Mercian Regiment, the antecedent regiments, and other arms.

Worksop Branch Worksop Branch were very busy through the autumn months last year, starting with a strong representation at the Laying Up of 2 MERCIAN Colours.  Branch members were proud to join the Freedom Parade, marching through the city of Lichfield as part of the Regimental family followed by an emotional service in the cathedral.   The following day, WFRA members from various branches enjoyed a trip to the Royal Armouries in Leeds.  Coach travel was arranged and funded by Nottinghamshire County Council.   Worksop Festival of Remembrance was held in October, Worksop Branch WFRA are a major part of this event which brings many of our local Armed Forced Community together at a time of year which is important to us all.  We supported the Poppy Appeal locally with members volunteering on poppy tables in the local supermarkets.  It’s very humbling to hear stories from members of the public about why Remembrance is important to them. 

Worksop Branch was asked to parade the Branch Standard at a number of events during the 2025 Remembrance period.  Branch members joined Acts of Remembrance at Worksop Town Football Club and Worksop Rugby Club and the Service of Remembrance at Worksop Masonic Hall as well as the town’s Remembrance Parade and a smaller service on Armistice Day. The mood became more social in December with many members enjoying a Christmas meal with members of Worksop Branch Royal British Legion and plenty of dancing later in the month at the Christmas party night which has become a regular feature on the branch calendar.

14th September – Mayors Annual Service On Sunday the 14th September members of the association attended the Annual Civic Service, Dave Willis and Mike Rogers carrying the association standards. The service is a celebration of the charity work done in Stockport, and in the presence of the Mayor, which this year is Cllr. Kerry Waters.

6th November – Manchester Airport Festival of Remembrance Mike Rogers and Dave Willis, flew standards representing the association, attended the annual Festival of Remembrance at the Runway Visitors Centre at Manchester Airport. This event, both inspiring and moving, celebrates and commemorates the lives of those lost in combat. In attendance, was a representative from The Lord Lieutenant’s office Representing The King, a representative from the Republic of Poland, Mayors from every part of Greater Manchester, including the current Mayor of Stockport Kerry Waters, as well as other local dignitaries, and representatives of many veteran organisations. Apart from uplifting and moving speeches, the audience was treated to excellent displays of drill and musical ability from the cadet forces of all 3 services.

9th November – Armistice Parade – Stockport War Memorial Sunday, saw Members of the Association led by Dave Willis and Mike Rogers as Standard Bearers lead the parade to the Stockport War Memorial, where as always there was a huge turnout of not only those participating in the parade, but the turnout of the people of Stockport, to honour the event, in the presence of The Worshipful Mayor of Stockport Kerry Waters, plus representatives from all faith denominations, and from the emergency services, and veterans organisations. With inspiring speeches, both from all faith denominations, and The Bishop of Stockport, it was a fitting tribute. Those taking part retired to St Juliens Barracks where they were treated to a buffet, and thanks go to Les Heighway and the staff for making sure everything went well.

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