On Friday 25th July, RAF Wyton exercised their Freedom of the Town of Huntingdon in a ceremonial parade through the town centre.
The Freedom of the Town is the highest honour a town council can bestow and grants a military unit the right to march through the town “with bayonets fixed, colours flying, and drums beating.” RAF Wyton were awarded this honour in 1955, and the 2025 parade marked the 70th anniversary of this enduring civic and military bond.
Crowds gathered in the Market Square to watch RAF personnel march into position ahead of the official inspection. The parade was led by the RAF Wyton Area Voluntary Band, with RAF Wyton personnel marching in formation. The event was attended by several local dignitaries, including the Mayor of Huntingdon, Cllr Audrey McAdam; the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Brigadier Tim Seal TD DL; The Hon Frances Stanley DL, High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire; and Wg Cdr John Grenville, Station Commander at RAF Wyton.
A highlight of the event was a flypast by a Spitfire from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. The aircraft passed over the Market Square in a dramatic and fitting tribute to the RAF’s historic and continuing service. Following the flypast, the parade formed up for an inspection of the troops.
Mayor of Huntingdon Cllr Audrey McAdam then addressed the assembled crowd, praising the ongoing relationship between the town and RAF Wyton and recognising the valuable contributions service personnel make to the community. Wing Commander John Grenville responded on behalf of the Royal Air Force, thanking the town for its enduring support.
The civic party proceeded to St Benedict’s Court to receive the salute as the parade marched out of the Market Square. From there, RAF personnel continued along the High Street and onto St Mary’s Street, where the parade was dismissed.
Cllr Karl Webb, Armed Forces Champion for Huntingdon Town Council, said: “It was an honour to witness such a proud and well-presented parade in our town centre. RAF Wyton has been a part of Huntingdon’s history for many years, and this anniversary marks not just tradition, but our continuing appreciation for the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces.”
Huntingdon Town Council extends its sincere thanks to RAF Wyton for their continued service and for marking this important anniversary with such pride, professionalism and pageantry. The Council also wishes to thank all members of the public who came along to watch and support the event, and the High Street businesses for their patience and cooperation during the temporary road closures.
Source: Huntingdon Town Council Press Release 28th July 2025