Standard bearers play a vital role in representing the Royal British Legion across the county. This page provides information on standard bearer training opportunities, what the role involves, and how members can become involved as an adult or youth standard bearer.
Standard Bearer Training Dates
The County regularly delivers standard bearer training sessions to support both new and existing standard bearers. Sessions are typically held in both the North and South of the county to ensure accessibility.
Standard Bearers are encouraged to attend Both Training Sessions where posible.
North of the County:
South of the County:
- Sunday 8th March
- Sunday 5th April
- Sunday 3rd May
- Sunday 14th June
- Sunday 12th July
- Sunday 2nd August
- Sunday 6th September
Further joining instructions are provided directly to attendees.
What Does Standard Bearer Training Involve?
Standard bearer training is designed to ensure that all standard bearers carry out their duties with confidence, dignity, and consistency.
Training sessions typically cover:
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Correct handling and carrying of the Standard.
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Static & marching movements.
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Saluting and lowering the Standard.
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Dress and Standard regulations.
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An understanding of different types of events and protocols.
Sessions are delivered in a supportive environment and are suitable for both new and experienced standard bearers.
Becoming a Standard Bearer
Members may become involved as either Adult or Youth standard bearers. Branches may appoint multiple standard bearers to support activity throughout the year.
Standard bearer roles may include:
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Branch Standard Bearer.
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Reserve Standard Bearer.
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Youth Standard Bearer.
While a branch may have multiple trained standard bearers, a branch is only allowed one Branch Standard. All other branch standards are to be laid up or given to the county for training purposes only. This allows standard bearers to take turns carrying their Branch Standard or, where appropriate, support other branches if a Standard Bearers are unavailable.
Youth Standard Bearers are able to carry any Branch Standard with proper training. Youth Standard Bearers will only be able to attend events with Parents/Guardians present or both the County and Deputy Parade Marshals due to safeguarding.
Where Standard Bearers Are Involved
Standard bearers represent the Legion across a wide range of occasions, including:
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Remembrance parades and services
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Civic and community events
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Funerals and acts of remembrance
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Competitions and ceremonial events
Their presence is an important symbol of respect, service, and remembrance.
Standard Bearer Competitions
An annual Standard Bearer Competition is held each year, with competitions for youth members and adult members.
Competitors are assessed on set criteria, with the highest-scoring individuals awarded the title of County Youth Standard Bearer and County Standard Bearer for the year. The County Youth Standard and County Standard are also paraded by the winners, respectively.
Winners can also be put forward for the National Standard Bearer Competition, with winners becoming the National Standard Bearer and National Youth Standard Bearer.
Getting Involved
Members who wish to get involved in Standard Bearer Training, Becoming a Standard Bearer or to learn more,
are encouraged to contact the County Parade Marshal.
Youth Members will need Parents/Guardians to make contact.
