Pontefract Castle to Host 80th Anniversary of KOYLI Freedom Celebration on 4 June 2026

On 4 June 2026, Pontefract Castle will come alive with music and history as it hosts a special event to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry (KOYLI) being granted the Freedom of the City of Wakefield. The occasion promises to be a memorable one for both locals and visitors, showcasing the rich military heritage of the area.

Event Details

The highlight of the evening will be a traditional Sounding Retreat performed by The Band and Bugles of The Rifles. This ceremonial military performance is not just a display of music; it reflects the discipline and pageantry of the British Army, making it an exciting experience for everyone attending. The event is free and open to all, with refreshments available on site, ensuring a festive atmosphere for all ages.

Those wishing to attend should arrive at the castle grounds by 6:15 PM, as the performance is set to begin at 6:30 PM and will last approximately one hour. This unique event provides an excellent opportunity for families and history enthusiasts to engage with the local military legacy.

A Special Anniversary

This event marks a significant milestone for The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry, a regiment that has deep ties to the Wakefield area. The KOYLI was granted the Freedom of the City in 1946, recognising its longstanding service and connection to the community. Wakefield Council is proud to celebrate this anniversary, highlighting the enduring relationship between the city and its military personnel.

Tony Reeves, Chief Executive at Wakefield Council, expressed the importance of this celebration, saying, “This event marks a very special anniversary for The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry and highlights the enduring relationship between Wakefield, its communities and the serving personnel and veterans living here today. We are delighted to welcome residents and visitors to enjoy this unique and memorable occasion with us.”

The Legacy of KOYLI

The history of The King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry is rich and intertwined with the local community. The regiment was disbanded in 1968 during a restructuring of the British Army, with its Freedom of the City then passed to The Light Infantry. Further changes in 2007 saw The Light Infantry become part of The Rifles, a new national infantry regiment, which now holds the Freedom of the City.

The connections between the KOYLI, The Light Infantry, and The Rifles with the Wakefield District are significant. The KOYLI Depot was located at Pontefract Barracks, and today, Y Company, 8 Rifles is based in Minden House, the last building from the old barracks still in military use. This history underscores the deep-rooted links between the military and the local community.

Community Engagement

Lieutenant Colonel Neil Watson, Commanding Officer of The Rifles, emphasised the importance of community support for the Armed Forces. He stated, “Wakefield has a proud history of supporting our Armed Forces, and hosting this event at Pontefract Castle is a great way to recognise that legacy. It is a great honour for The Rifles to perform a Sounding Retreat at Pontefract Castle, showcasing the rich musical heritage, discipline and pageantry of the British Army. This event celebrates not only our shared history but the continued bond between the Armed Forces and the local community in Wakefield.”

Such events not only honour military traditions but also foster a sense of community pride and connection. The Sounding Retreat is a perfect example of how the past can be celebrated and remembered in a way that engages present and future generations.

How to Attend

Residents and visitors interested in attending this historic event can find more information and book their place online. It is an excellent opportunity to witness a unique military tradition in one of the district’s most iconic locations.

As Pontefract Castle prepares to host this significant celebration, it will serve as a reminder of the enduring links between the community and its military heritage, reinforcing the pride that the people of Wakefield have in their Armed Forces. The Sounding Retreat promises to be a fitting tribute to the past while bringing together the community in celebration of their shared history.