MERTON will receive a visit from the Coldstream Guards as the village grants them the 'Freedom of Merton' in memory of their founder, George Monck.

The Guards will be celebrating their freedom of the village with a parade in full dress uniform on Tuesday July 5.

The parade will take them through the village into the village square, where they will be inspected before the Freedom ceremony takes place.

Colonel George Monck was famously known for his many successful and skilful military exploits. He fought for both King and Parliament in the British Civil Wars and was instrumental in restoring King Charles II to the British throne.

Following his return to England, Charles II disbanded the parliamentary army but retained General Monck's Regiment of Foot, better known today as the Coldstream Guards.

Founded in August 1650, the Coldstream Guards is the oldest regular regiment in the British Army with continuous service.

Chairman of Merton Parish Council Tim Horner said: 'There is a strong bond between the Coldstream Guards and the village of Merton, the birthplace of George Monck. 

'We are delighted to welcome the Coldstream Regiment of Foot Guards and openly grant, the ancient honour and right to march through the village with bayonets fixed, banners flying and drums.'

The military parade will start at noon, with the parade entering the village square at 12.15pm