The mayor of Ramsey, Councillor Doug McIlwain, has announced that the freedom of the town will be bestowed upon the Army Cadet force (Ramsey Division) at the annual civic service on September 2.

The event will begin at 2pm with a parade by the Ramsey Army Cadet detachment, who will then be presented freedom of the town by the mayor.

The civic service will follow at 3pm at St Thomas a Becket Church.

In commemoration of Merchant Navy Day, a wreath will also be laid at the town memorial.

Cllr McIlwain said: “It is a great honour that the cadets have agreed to accept the freedom of the town. I believe this is the first time such a freedom has been offered or accepted I would hope that the whole of Ramsey turns out and supports the cadets.

“Over the last few years we have had close links with the cadets’ headquarters at Waterbeach and last year I was invited to the yearly camp after seeing them in action I decided it would be ideal to offer the freedom to them.”