RBL Standard Darlington Library event pic resize.jpg
The unveiling ceremony, at Darlington central library

Darlington salutes return of Royal Legion standard

A treasured piece of local military heritage has gone on public display in Darlington, marking an important moment of remembrance for the community.

The town’s central library is now hosting the Royal British Legion Darlington Branch’s 1971 standard, following extensive restoration and framing work supported by North East employers the Banks Group and Hellens Group. 

The standard was first awarded after the organisation received its Royal title, remaining in use until 2012 when a new flag was introduced to mark HM Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

After being laid up at Holy Trinity Church, in Darlington, the standard was returned to the branch earlier this year and formally unveiled during the town’s VJ Day 80th anniversary commemorations. 

Its display at the library will last eight months before it will be moved to its permanent home at Hopetown Darlington Railway Museum, where two restored 1921 standards are already housed.

Kate Culverhouse, community relations manager at the Banks Group, said: “We’re very pleased to have played a part in bringing these historic items and all the local history that they encapsulate back into permanent public view.” 

Gavin Cordwell-Smith, chief executive at Hellens Group, added: “Contributing to the communities in which we work, has long been central to our values, and we are delighted to have helped safeguard an important part of Darlington’s history.

“By supporting the restoration of these historic standards, we help ensure that the dedication and sacrifices of those before us will be recognised and remembered for years to come.”

The Darlington Branch, one of the earliest formed when the British Legion was founded in 1921, remains active today with around 125 members representing all services and tours of duty from Suez to the Falklands and the Persian Gulf.

Branch chair John Smith added: “This standard is a very important part of the organisation’s heritage in Darlington, and we’re very pleased to see it on show in our town’s central library.

“Being well over 50 years old, the standard is naturally in a delicate condition, but the special frames we’ve been able to place it and the other two standards in with the help of the Banks Group and Hellens Group will help ensure they are all properly preserved for posterity.

“Our members are extremely pleased to have all three standards on display, and it’s good to know that they’re going to be well looked after and easily available for everyone to see.” 

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