Erewash: Royal Navy squadron and former mayor to be honoured

A Royal Navy helicopter squadron and a former councillor are to be granted a Derbyshire borough's highest honour.

The 814 Naval Air Squadron, known as the Flying Tigers, and Robert Parkinson, who also served as mayor, will be given the Freedom of the Borough of Erewash on 16 May.

The Long Eaton Town Hall ceremonies will coincide with the authority marking 50 years in existence.

Previous recipients of the honour include actor Robert Lindsay.

The council said it had formed close links with the 814 Naval Squadron thanks to the Armed Forces Covenant - a "solemn promise to support" those who serve, and their families.

The anti-submarine helicopter force, which comprises some 200 personnel, is based at Culdrose in Cornwall.

The authority said it would be granted "the right, privilege, honour and distinction of marching through the streets of the borough on all ceremonial occasions with colours flying, bands playing, drums beating and bayonets fixed".

Mr Parkinson will be honoured for devoting more than 50 years of service to the borough and its residents.

Authorities said "official scrolls" would be presented to the squadron and Mr Parkinson.

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