ONE of the proudest moments in Lyme’s history was marked with a procession through Broad Street.

The Siege of Lyme in 1644 lasted for six weeks when Prince Maurice approached the town with a force of 6,000 men.

The people of the town held strong and Parliament declared that June 16 should be celebrated in Lyme to recognised their heroism.

A parade led by drummers from Lyme Regis Junior Band moved through Broad Street, ending at Theatre Square where the crowd was addressed.

Town Mayor Sally Holman, accompanied by four town councillors, joined the parade.

She spoke of the resolve of the people in 1644 and how they had worked together to defeat the Royalist forces.

Coun Holman said: “We are proud of our past and confident in our future.”

She thanked the Regatta and Carnival committee and chairman Teresa Evemy, who were all dressed in period costume, for organising the event.

The vicar of Lyme Regis, Reverend Jane Skinner, led prayers and spoke about the many preachers whose faith in God had given them strength.

Mrs Evemy said: “We are delighted to keep this tradition alive here in Lyme Regis. We should never forget those who lived in this great town and how they have shaped the way that we live today.”