F0r the first time a Corps of Drums is to lead Newton Abbot’s Remembrance Day Parade today.

Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Volunteer Cadet Corps, based at the RM Barracks, Stonehouse, Plymouth, will head the parade of uniformed organisations and veterans from Drum Clock Corner through Queen Street to the war memorial for the annual service and wreath laying.

Among those taking part will be veterans, representatives of uniformed organisations and councillors, as well as Newton Abbot RBL branch standard bearer Glyn Waldron and women’s section standard bearer Yvonne Daniels.

Following the service the parade will march to the town’s Royal British Legion Club, Marsh Road, where the corps will give a small display of Beating the Retreat in front of the club.

Usually on Remembrance Sunday the Cadets parade on Plymouth Hoe as a Cadet attachment and not as a Corps of Drums.

RBL branch member Paul Toovey, who will be parade marshal, arranged for the RM Volunteer Cadets to come to Newton Abbot.

He has been working with the town’s Police Cadets teaching them the drill in readiness for the parade.

‘When I contacted the corps they said it was a great honour to be invited, and they jumped at the opportunity.

‘It is a great honour for Newton Abbot to have them. The parade is getting bigger every year and I hope the population of the town will turn out in force to support Remembrance Day and the Corps of Drums.

‘I would like to thank the piper who has led the parade for the past couple of years. He was also going to take part in this year’s parade but is unable to do so through ill-health,’ said Mr Toovey.