Hats off to Chelsea Pensioners’ return to parade
OVERJOYED Chelsea Pensioners doff their tricornes as they parade in public yesterday for the first time since the pandemic began.
The former soldiers lined up at their Royal Hospital headquarters in central London for inspection by Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester.
It was a belated celebration of the hospital’s founder, King Charles II.
Pensioner Peter Turner said “Most of us are also looking on it as the beginning of the end of lockdown restrictions which, after 18 months, has been very wearing for us.”
John Gallagher added: “Wearing the Scarlet, white gloves and tricorne for an audience is as necessary as bread and water.
“We stand proud!”