Members of Gordon’s School’s pipes and drums band have taken to the streets of London for their annual parade along Whitehall.
Approximately 250 students took part in the 26th annual march to commemorate the death of General Charles George Gordon. A memorial service took place by his statue at Victoria Embankment Gardens led by the school chaplain, the Reverend Sarah Norbron.
The school opened in 1885 as Gordon’s Boys’ following Queen Victoria’s desire for a national memorial to honour the ex-British Army officer. It continues to have the reigning sovereign as its patron and keeps up the tradition of marching. With around 50% of the boarders from service families, the school maintains strong links with them, particularly with the Royal Engineers whom General Gordon commanded.
Head teacher Andrew Moss commented: “As always, we were honoured to be able to uphold our tradition, which is a much anticipated event for the whole school. As the only school granted permission to march through Whitehall once again our students represented Gordon’s School to the highest standard, of which General Gordon himself would have been proud.
“Our thanks go to the City of Westminster for allowing us to continue our tradition, to staff and students for their commitment and dedication and to all the parents who helped organise travel, marshal the event and who continue to support the school and our students.”