CADETS from Stover Independent Schools' Combined Cadet Force detachment paraded for the presentation of their Union and school standard flags.

A service of dedication and blessing was conducted by the school’s chaplain Rev Fiona Wimsett in front of a temporary ‘field drumhead’ of four drums, placed by the Plymouth Marine Drum and Bugle cadre who led the parade and conducted The Last Post and Reveille during a two-minute silence in memory of the Gunners of 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery who have died on active service since the formation of the regiment in May 1962. 

Lieutenant General Sir Andrew Ridgway KBE CB DL, Deputy of Devon presented the Union Flag in his role deputising for the King’s representative to Devon the Lord Lieutenant.

A spokesman for the Cadet force said: ‘This is believed to be the first presentation of an official Union Flag in the name of King Charles III following the Kings’ coronation within the United Kingdom, a significant event for both the Combined Cadet Force and the school marking a small moment in history. 

Stover Independent Schools Combined Cadet Force detachment paraded for the presentation of their Union and school standard flags
(-)

The 29 Commando Regiment is the school detachment’s affiliated regiment.

The commanding officer was represented by Major Mike Hawkes, formally second in command, who presented the school standard on behalf both the Regiment and Commando ‘Gunners’ Veterans Association.

Local veterans’ associations of the Royal British Legion from across Teignbridge supported the event and paraded their respective Standards, before the final act parading both flags with Lieutenant General Ridgway taking the salute.

The service ended with a rousing chorus of the National Anthem led by members of the school’s choir. 

A buffet lunch was served to all guests, including the mayor of Newton Abbot on her last official duty, local dignitaries, participants and parents.

Headmaster Richard Notman presented a limited edition 1966 Royal Artillery commemorative Spode plate on behalf of the Cadets to the officers, NCOs and Gunners of 29 Commando Regiment as a gesture of thanks for their support of the school’s Cadets.