THE Freedom of the Borough of Stockton has been granted to The Rifles.
Following re-organisation of the Army, the Light Infantry, which already had the Freedom of the Borough, are now part of a new regiment, The Rifles.
A large proportion of The Rifles are from the North-East, with a number from Stockton. The regiment has served in Iraq and were recently preparing for operations in Afghanistan.
The Mayor of Stockton, Councillor John Fletcher, will present a sealed and illuminated copy of the Resolution to The Rifles at a later date and the regiment will be given the opportunity to exercise the Freedom of the Town during their regimental programme for 2009-2010.
Coun Fletcher said: "Having granted The Light Infantry the Freedom of the Borough more than 30 years ago, we are delighted to continue our strong association with the regiment.
"The Light Infantry were themselves the successors to the Durham Light Infantry.
"The Rifles is now the largest Infantry Regiment in the British Army and we are all very proud of our troops.
"The Light Infantry was granted Freedom of the Borough of Stockton in 1977."
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