Military Base Says 'Thank You' With Beating Retreat Performance

MOD Stafford has played host to the Band of the Parachute Regiment as they performed the military ceremony, Beating Retreat.

It was a chance for the base to say thank you to the families of serving personnel and the invited guests from the local community for their support.

During the event, they played a wide range of music and also treated the audience to theme tunes to popular television series including Game of Thrones.

Colour Sergeant Michael McGowan, Band Master for Band of the Parachute Regiment, said they wanted to appeal to a younger audience:

"We do try to cover a wide variety of music in what we do.

"Obviously, the traditional regimental marches have an important part to play in what we do.

"But we want to appeal to a younger generation and perform some music that they'll understand and appreciate."

It is the first event of its type at MOD Stafford since the arrival of 1 and 16 Signal Regiments back from Germany.

The event was also open to members of the local community as well as the families of service personnel.

Beating Retreat dates back to the 16th century when it was used to recall units back to their castle.

Brigadier Richard Carter, Commander 11 Signals and West Midlands Brigade said: "Our heritage and history is very important to the Armed Forces."

Lieutenant Colonel Elizabeth Byfield, Station Commander at MoD Stafford added: "It's about us saying thank you.

"It's about us recognising the impact we have on their lives by being here - and also the support they give us."