It was s proud and historic moment for Hungerford when onn Saturday 25 April, 6 Armoured Close Support Battalion REME was formally granted the Freedom of the Town by Hungerford Town Council.

This special honour recognises the battalion’s long-standing relationship with Hungerford and its continued support of the community – especially the Battalion’s respected presence at Remembrance Sunday services over many years.

The ceremony was conducted with dignity and warmth, celebrating not only military service but a deep and enduring bond with the town. It also fulfilled a vision first championed by former Mayor Martin Crane OBE, and later brought to life under the leadership of former Mayor Helen Simpson: a fitting finale to her eight-year tenure.

A huge thank you to the battalion for the generous gifts, including a framed picture celebrating its motto “Arte et Marte” and a beautifully crafted piece of metalwork of the REME insignia.

All in all, a day of pride, partnership and lasting connection.

A shout-out also for the fab local producers and suppliers for HTC’s contribution to a celebration lunch in Hungerford Town Hall. On the menu was smoked trout blinis, beef fillet with horseradish cream en croute, venison with capers and grain mustard en croute, hummus, carrots and rocket sandwiches, rhubarb flapjacks, apple, rhubarb and ginger punch and a truly epic Victoria sponge celebration cake.