SOLDIERS from the Mercian Regiment were welcomed through the streets of Worcester on Saturday to celebrate the ten year anniversary of the organisation’s formation.
Known as ‘the Heart of England’s Infantry’, the Mercian Regiment is one of the most decorated and operationally experienced regiments in the British Army.
It was formed on September 1, 2007, at a parade held in the Tamworth Castle grounds.
It brought together three antecedent regiments – the Cheshire Regiment, the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment; and the Staffordshire Regiment.
The parade began at Worcester Cathedral and saw soldiers march through the city centre to Dancox House Army Reserve Centre and on to Pheasant Street.
The event also marked the centenary of the award of the Victoria Cross to Pvt Frederick Dancox of the Worcestershire Regiment.
Dancox was serving with the 4th Battalion the Worcestershire Regiment during the Passchendaele offensive in 1917. Despite getting separated from his patrol, Dancox managed to dodge enemy fire and capture 40 German soldiers.
He was due to be awarded the Victoria Cross in November 1917, but never received it as he was killed in battle.
His bravery has now been honoured with a plaque outside the Dancox House Army Reserve Centre.
