The 220th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar takes place today (Saturday 25 October) and is commemorated by a parade in the centre of Bradford by the North District Sea Cadets.

Over 170 cadets from across West Yorkshire and Harrogate, including Bradford’s TS Aurora, have come together to celebrate the battle, one of the biggest events in Royal Naval history.

The parade began at 9:30am from Centenary Square, setting off at 10:40am towards Bradford Cathedral.

A commemorative service is then held at 11am at the Cathedral, before the march continues to the Centenary Square Mirror Pool, where His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Mr Ed Anderson CBE will take the salute alongside other distinguished guests and dignitaries. 

Councillor Joanne Dodds, Bradford Council’s Armed Force Champion said: “To have this parade marking the 220th anniversary of the Battle of Trafalgar in Bradford is such an honour. 

“Although we are landlocked and many miles from the sea, the Bradford district’s connections to the navy go back decades and these young people from our local cadets are instrumental to keeping that proud tradition alive.

S/Lt Noel Waterhouse, Commanding Officer had some words about why the parade is important, and what they are marching for. He said: “Bradford Sea Cadets join units across the district to celebrate one of the most famous battles in history – the Battle of Trafalgar fought 220 years ago.

“It was during this historic victory that one of the nation’s greatest heroes, Admiral Lord Nelson, gave his life in service to his country. As we honour his legacy, we also take pride in promoting the values and opportunities offered through the Sea Cadets.”