TAUNTON Deane’s links with the Armed Forces have been commemorated with a presentation to the Mayor, Cllr Vivienne Stock-Williams.

The statuette of a regimental bugler was given in recognition of the “continuing friendship” between the council and The Rifles, who have the Freedom of the Borough.

It was presented during a Sounding Retreat ceremony at Castle Green, in Taunton, where one of the highlights saw buglers standing high above the crowds on the castle battlements.

Brigadier David Godsal, The Rifles County Colonel Somerset, and General Sir John Deverell hosted the historic ceremony which saw the two Army Reserve Bands of The Rifles, known as the Salamanca and Waterloo Bands, combine for the evening supported by The Silver Bugles of The Somerset Cadet Battalion (The Rifles) Army Cadet Force.

Mrs Stock-Williams said: “I am delighted that The Rifles were able to stage this wonderful historic ceremony in Taunton. It was a fabulous and fascinating display.

"I am extremely grateful for their generous gift to the people of Taunton Deane, which now has pride of place in our display cabinet along with other pieces celebrating friendships made over many years.”