KOYLI Freedom of the City of Wakefield 80th Anniversary Sounding Retreat

King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Freedom of the City of Wakefield 80th Anniversary Sounding Retreat.

Pontefract Castle will provide the backdrop for a special civic and ceremonial event, marking the 80th Anniversary of the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infrantry (KOYLI) being awarded the Freedom of the City of Wakefield.

The evening will feature a traditional Sounding Retreat performed by The Band and Bugles of The Rifles. You will have the opportunity to experience a rare ceremonial military performance within one of the Wakefield district’s most historically significant venues.

The event recognises the longstanding military heritage of the district and the historic links between Wakefield and The KOYLI.  The Freedom of the City passed from The KOYLI when it was disbanded during the restructuring of the British Army in 1968 to become one of the three Light Infantry Battalions.  Following further restructuring of the British Army in 2007, the Freedom of the City was passed to The Rifles when The Light Infantry became one of the forming regiments of The Rifles, a new national infantry regiment.

The KOYLI Depot was in Pontefract Barracks and Y Company, 8 Rifles are based in Minden House, the last building from Pontefract Barracks still in military use.

Refreshments will be available on site.

Free event, booking required.

Any questions? Please contact the ​Events team at festivals@wakefield.gov.uk