Whitby Town Council has bestowed its highest civic honour after agreeing to give the Honorary Freedom of the Town of Whitby to the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), in recognition of its distinguished service and longstanding association with the town.
The decision was made at an extraordinary meeting of the council held on Tuesday, and convened especially for this purpose.
It means REME has the right, privilege, honour, and distinction of marching through the town on ceremonial occasions with colours flying, bands playing, drums beating, and bayonets fixed.
To mark the honour, a freedom parade and civic ceremony will take place in Whitby on Saturday July 25, involving serving REME personnel, civic representatives, veterans’ organisations, invited guests, residents, and visitors.
Honorary Freedom of the Town is the highest civic honour that may be bestowed by Whitby Town Council with a council spokesperson saying: “The resolution formally places on record the council’s high appreciation of, and gratitude for, REME’s distinguished service, its contribution to the defence of the United Kingdom, and its enduring relationship with Whitby.”
REME was formed in 1942 and is responsible for maintaining, recovering, and repairing tanks, vehicles, weapons, and equipment. The regiment continues to play a vital role in supporting the operational effectiveness of the British Army.
The Corps has maintained a strong and continuing association with Whitby through its participation in civic, ceremonial, and remembrance events, including the town’s annual Remembrance Sunday Parade.
REME also has a deep personal connection with Whitby and local families.
Heroes Bridge on the West Pier is dedicated to local servicemen Craftsman Andrew Found, who served with REME and was killed in Afghanistan, and Corporal Damien Lawrence, of 2 Yorks, also sadly killed in Afghanistan.
Whitby is also the resting place of Warrant Officer Class 1 John Thomas Buck, a local man who served with REME for many years.
REME personnel have also supported the wider community through educational and voluntary activities, including work with Whitby School and community-based activities such as beach cleans and litter picks.
Town Mayor of Whitby, Coun Sandra Turner, said: “Whitby has a long and proud relationship with the Armed Forces, and it is entirely fitting that the council should recognise the distinguished service of REME in this way.
“The Corps has not only served the country with dedication but has also built a meaningful and lasting connection with our town through remembrance, civic participation, and community support.
“The granting of the Honorary Freedom of the Town is the highest honour Whitby Town Council can bestow. It is a mark of our gratitude, respect, and continuing friendship with REME, and I look forward to the people of Whitby having the opportunity to show their appreciation at the Freedom Parade and civic ceremony.”
