Press release from the Duke of Wellington’s Regimental Association and Calderdale Council:
On Friday 17 May, a unique and significant memorial commemorating The Duke of Wellington’s Regiment’s loyal 304 years of service to the Crown, will be unveiled in the heart of Halifax, home to the Regiment for over 200 years.
The ceremony will take place at The Woolshops at 3.15pm and will be preceded by a service and concert in Halifax Minster at 1.30pm, celebrating the history of the Regiment. At both events the unique Honorary Colours of the Regiment will be paraded by the Yorkshire Regiment.
Standing in the heart of Halifax, the statue, which reaches an impressive height of 18 feet, has been designed by master sculptor, Andrew Sinclair. The celebratory piece will recognise the service of over 205,000 men who served their country, as well as the families who supported them, and the West Riding of Yorkshire from where so many were recruited.
The Memorial is set to be unveiled by the Duke of Wellington, whose family have had a close association with the Regiment ever since Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington, joined the 33rd Regiment of Foot in the 18th century.
Arthur Charles Valerian Wellesley, 9th Duke of Wellington, said:
“The unveiling of the Memorial will be a significant event for the Regiment as well as the people of Yorkshire, not simply because of what is being revealed but also because this event in many ways marks the formal conclusion of 304 years of service to the Crown by the Regiment. The Memorial will tell the history of the Regiment and also celebrate the unique qualities of the Yorkshire soldier.”
Brigadier Andrew Meek CBE said:
“On behalf of myself and the Regiment, I would like to thank everyone who has supported the Memorial Appeal. This support has enabled us to create a lasting legacy to a unique and great British infantry regiment. Not only will it honour the sacrifice of those who gave their lives, it will be a permanent, national legacy to inform generations to come of the history of the Regiment and those who served. We look forward to a wonderful day of celebration and anticipate a large turnout for a Regiment which served the Crown so conspicuously.”
Robin Tuddenham, Calderdale Council’s Chief Executive, said:
“We are delighted that Halifax has been chosen as the location for the Duke of Wellington’s Regimental Memorial, to honour local soldiers and their families and celebrate our distinctive heritage. We have worked closely with the Association to support its fundraising efforts over the past two years.
“Halifax is a fitting location, as the Regiment has a long-standing connection with the town. We are proud to house the Regimental museum at Bankfield Museum, and Halifax Minster displays the Colours of the Regiment. This significant memorial will contribute to Calderdale’s growing popularity as a heritage and cultural destination.”
For more information on the 17 May unveiling and to donate to the memorial appeal, visit the Duke of Wellington’s Regimental Association website: https://memorial.dwr.org.uk/(external link)