Volunteer Cadet Corps makes history to enact ancient Tower of London ceremony
For the first time the Ceremony of the Constable's Dues at the Tower of London has been performed by the Volunteer Cadet Corps (VCC) to mark its 125th anniversary.
The ceremony traces its origins to the 14th century when the Constable of the Tower had the right to extract tolls from ships sailing past the Tower of London.
The VCC, which first formed on 14 February 1901 and is part of the Royal Navy's Cadet Forces, is the first youth organisation to ever conduct the ceremony.
Veterans and People Minister Louise Sandher-Jones said it was wonderful to see the VCC make history, adding that they had some fantastic representatives and "the drill was spot on".
"I think that's what's really great about the cadets is the kids are fantastic, they do great stuff, it really brings together people from across all the generations," she said.
"Joining the cadets really does change lives – truly they give you the confidence to know what you want to do.
"They can really show all the amazing opportunities that are out there; they give you skills, experiences that you won't get anywhere else."
Parade Commander Cadet WO1 Oliver, who's hoping to join the Royal Marines in September, said it was very special to be in such an historic location, taking part in such an important parade.
He said the ceremony was the culmination of much preparation, with "my parents forced me to be practising it each night".
"Then for the last few days, we've been at Woolwich Barracks practising every single day for a few hours."
He added: "So, that's doing my speech, giving the orders, just getting this parade absolutely pinpoint."
Although similar to the Sea Cadet Corps and Combined Cadet Force, the VCC is unique as it is only based at a limited number of naval establishments, where specialist logistical and training support can be provided.
The VCC is open to young people between the ages of nine and 18, and is managed and run by unpaid volunteer staff.
What is the Ceremony of the Constable's Dues?
During the Middle Ages, successive kings believed it was their right to demand tolls from vessels sailing up the Thames to the City.
Ships had to moor at Tower Wharf to unload a portion of their cargo for the Constable of the Tower of London, who was allowed to collect these tolls on the king's behalf.
In 1381 King Richard issued a grant that required every galley passing the Tower to present "two roundlets of wyne" to the Constable.
Still today, whenever a Royal Naval vessel moors on the Wharf, the Captain must present the Constable with a barrel of wine – the 'Dues'.
The barrel is ceremoniously escorted into the Tower by the Yeoman Warders and presented to the Constable on Tower Green.
Additional reporting by Alexander Walters.
Join Our Newsletter
