THEY still march with the same pride and spirit that they have always done. But the sad fact is the number of old soldiers who join the annual parade of The Queen’s Own Buffs in Canterbury is dwindling.

Ten years ago there were probably twice as many regimental veterans who proudly paraded to the Cathedral for the regiment’s annual service of remembrance.

Harry Crooks, chairman of the Canterbury branch, estimates about 300 from branches around Kent took part in the procession on Sunday, but admits that falling numbers are inevitable.

He said: “It’s good to still see so many of the older chaps here, but obviously it can be tiring for them, particularly on a hot day like this.

“We know that every year a few more just can’t do it or have simply passed away, but we don’t like to count the numbers.”

He added: “It is still a very special day for us and we all look forward to it immensely. It is our highlight of the year and gives us time to reflect and time to catch up with old friends.”

As is tradition, the veterans mustered at Christ Church University, this time under new RSM for the 3rd Battalion, Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment, Dave Falconer, who barked the commands.

They were led through Canterbury behind the rousing beat of the Kohima Band, much to the enjoyment of visitors who lined the route to watch.

Among them were old soldiers from as far away as Canada and Denmark. The Canterbury branch is the custodian of the Danish standard since its branch folded, but some of its veterans who fought in The Buffs still attend the annual event.

After the service of remembrance, about 100 members and their wives attended a renion lunch hosted at Leros Barracks.