Brigadier Stephen Matthews DL attended on behalf of the Lord-Lieutenant for the Freedom of the Town Parade in Wokingham on Sunday 26 October 2025, as the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) returned to the town for a ceremonial march through the centre.

Brigadier Matthews served as Commandant of the REME Training Group at Arborfield Garrison from 1999 to 2002. His presence at the parade therefore held a particular resonance, reflecting his long association with both the Corps and its historic home in the local area.

The Freedom of the Town is an honour that recognises the strong and enduring relationship between Wokingham and REME. The Corps has deep roots in the town, with Arborfield serving as its primary training base for nearly 70 years. The parade marked a meaningful continuation of that connection, ten years after the Corps’ departure from Arborfield.

Large crowds gathered to welcome the Corps, as personnel, accompanied by the Corps Band and Colours, marched through the town.

Colonel Iain Wallace OBE ADC, Corps Colonel REME, said:

“It was an enormous privilege for the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers to once again exercise the Freedom of Wokingham – a town with which we share such deep and enduring ties. REME has been part of the fabric of this community since 1946, and to march through its streets once more, ten years after leaving Arborfield, felt like coming home. The warmth, pride and support shown by the people of Wokingham truly reflect the best of British spirit, and we are deeply grateful for the continued friendship and respect shown towards our Corps and its people.”

Photography courtesy of Stewart Turkington.