THE annual luncheon of the March branch of the Grenadier Guards Association was held at the Conservative Club. Members, with partners, wives, family and friends made up those who enjoyed a meal together, prior to the opportunity to socialise and take part

THE annual luncheon of the March branch of the Grenadier Guards Association was held at the Conservative Club. Members, with partners, wives, family and friends made up those who enjoyed a meal together, prior to the opportunity to socialise and take part in a charity raffle.

Following the announcement of telegrams, and responses, of support to the Queen (Colonel in Chief) and Prince Philip (Colonel) loyal toasts were proposed by branch president Captain C Brown, who reported that in the 350 years that the regiment had existed they had faithfully served 12 monarchs.

The group were then addressed by the association general secretary from London, Captain Trevor Rolfe, who welcomed the opportunity of returning to his home town to speak to members. He spoke of his links with the town - he played football for local clubs, was educated at the Hereward School, and his family are well known within the town. He reported on the deployment of the battalion to Iraq in the coming week, and of the extensive series of events taking place around the country this year to celebrated the founding of the regiment 350 years ago.