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Wales Online
2 days ago
- General
- Wales Online
Thousands join celebrations to mark Bangor's 1,500th anniversary
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Bangor city centre was a sea of flags and cheers as thousands of residents and visitors lined the streets to witness a grand military parade. It was a highlight of the city's 1,500th anniversary celebrations. The event gathered service personnel, veterans, cadets, and community groups, showcasing a vibrant display of civic pride and heritage. An impressive range of regimental units marched through the streets. Sign up now for the latest news on the North Wales Live Whatsapp community Troops came from The Royal Welsh, the Welsh Guards, RAF Valley, and 106 Squadron medical reservists. (Image: UGC) They were joined by the renowned British Army Band from Catterick, who gave a rousing performance as the parade filed through the streets of Bangor. Veterans and more than 100 cadets, some travelling from as far as Birkenhead and South Shropshire, participated in the impressive procession, demonstrating the broad support for the city's historic milestone. Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Director, expressed his gratitude to the community: 'We were thrilled to see such an incredible turnout for the military parade. It was a powerful reminder of Bangor's enduring spirit and the pride we all share in our city's remarkable history. (Image: UGC) "Thank you to everyone who came out to support this event. This is just one of many events planned throughout 2025 to mark our 1,500th anniversary. "We encourage everyone to join us in the coming months as we continue to celebrate Bangor's rich heritage and vibrant community.' The parade is part of a year-long programme of events organised by Bangor City Council in collaboration with local organisations, schools, and community groups. * Other events to mark Bangor's 1,500th anniversary this year will include the Bangor Summer Festival, History Festival, artistic performances, and a spectacular firework display, all designed to honour the city's past, present and future.


North Wales Live
3 days ago
- General
- North Wales Live
Thousands join celebrations to mark Bangor's 1,500th anniversary
Bangor city centre was a sea of flags and cheers as thousands of residents and visitors lined the streets to witness a grand military parade. It was a highlight of the city's 1,500th anniversary celebrations. The event gathered service personnel, veterans, cadets, and community groups, showcasing a vibrant display of civic pride and heritage. Led proudly by Shenkin IV, the iconic goat mascot of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh, the parade showcased an impressive array of regimental units. Guest of honour was Betty Roberts, aged 101, who played a vital role in the RAF communications in WWII. Others in Thursday's parade included troops from The Royal Welsh, the Welsh Guards, RAF Valley, and 106 Squadron medical reservists. They were joined by the renowned British Army Band from Catterick, who gave a rousing performance as the parade marched through the streets of Bangor. Veterans and more than 100 cadets, some travelling from as far as Birkenhead and South Shropshire, participated in the impressive procession, demonstrating the broad support for the city's historic milestone. Dr Martin Hanks, Bangor City Director, expressed his gratitude to the community: 'We were thrilled to see such an incredible turnout for the military parade. It was a powerful reminder of Bangor's enduring spirit and the pride we all share in our city's remarkable history. "Thank you to everyone who came out to support this event. This is just one of many events planned throughout 2025 to mark our 1,500th anniversary. "We encourage everyone to join us in the coming months as we continue to celebrate Bangor's rich heritage and vibrant community.' The parade is part of a year-long programme of events organised by Bangor City Council in collaboration with local organisations, schools, and community groups. Betty Roberts, who celebrated her 101st birthday this month, represents a living link to the city's wartime past. Enlisting in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) in 1943, Betty served as a teleprinter operator at RAF Blackbrook during the Second World War, where she played a vital role in the RAF's communications network. After the war, she married High-Speed Telegraphist Joe Roberts and settled in Bangor, where she has remained a cherished member of the community ever since. Betty recently reflected on VE Day and her wartime service, saying: 'I never imagined the messages I typed would have such importance. We were just doing our duty.' Her quiet bravery and long-standing ties to Bangor made her the perfect guest of honour. * Other events to mark Bangor's 1,500th anniversary this year will include the Bangor Summer Festival, History Festival, artistic performances, and a spectacular firework display, all designed to honour the city's past, present and future.