The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry celebrated at Pontefract Castle
Wakefield Council is celebrating the 80th anniversary of The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry being granted the Freedom of the City of Wakefield with a family event next month.
The event at Pontefract Castle on June 4, will see The Band and Bugles of The Rifles, delivering a traditional Sounding Retreat – a ceremonial military performance showcasing the rich musical heritage, discipline and pageantry of the British Army.
In 1968, the British Army was restructured and The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (KOYLI) disbanded.
The Freedom of the City then passed to The Light Infantry. Further restructuring in 2007 saw The Light Infantry become one of the forming regiments of The Rifles, a new national infantry regiment.
The Freedom of the City then passed onto The Rifles.
The KOYLI, The Light Infantry and The Rifles have longstanding and deep connections with the Wakefield District.
The KOYLI Depot was in Pontefract Barracks. Y Company, 8 Rifles are based in Minden House, the last building from Pontefract Barracks still in military use.
Lieutenant Colonel Neil Watson, Commanding Officer, The Rifles, said: “Wakefield has a proud history of supporting our Armed Forces, and hosting this event at Pontefract Castle is a great way to recognise that legacy.
"It is a great honour for The Rifles to perform a Sounding Retreat at Pontefract Castle, showcasing the rich musical heritage, discipline and pageantry of the British Army.
"This event celebrates not only our shared history, but the continued bond between the Armed Forces and the local community in Wakefield.”
Tony Reeves, Chief Executive at Wakefield Council, said: “This event marks a very special anniversary for The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry and highlights the enduring relationship between Wakefield, its communities and the serving personnel and veterans living here today.
"We are delighted to welcome residents and visitors to enjoy this unique and memorable occasion with us."
The event is free and open to all, with refreshments available on site.
Members of the public are asked to be within the grounds of Pontefract Castle by 6.15pm, with the Sounding Retreat beginning at 6.30pm.
The performance will last around one hour.
Find out more and book your place here