The Freedom of St Ives is an historic tradition rooted in the town’s medieval past, when charters were granted by the Crown to towns to allow them a degree of self- governance. Freedom of the town could then be granted to merchants or craftsmen to trade freely without paying fees or tolls. In St Ives the Freedom has become a ceremonial honour bestowed by the Town Council to individuals or organisations as a mark of respect and gratitude in recognition of exceptional service.
On Saturday 27th September 2025 the Freedom of St Ives was granted to the 42nd Engineer Regiment on behalf of The Corps of the Royal Engineers by the Mayor, Cllr Julie Kerr in recognition of their support to the armed forces in the field. It was warm autumn day which made the parade a very well attended event, much enjoyed by residents, visitors and participants alike.
Formed in 1716 the Corps, commonly known as ‘Sappers’, have served in all British military campaigns. Its regiments have specialist roles including commandos; parachute; counter-chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear warfare; air support; explosive ordnance disposal and search, geographic mapping and armoured engineering.