There will be a Royal visitor in Marlborough next month when the Duke of Kent unveils a commemorative plaque at the New Road war memorial to mark the centenary of the First World War.

The Duke will be met by the mayor Marian Hannaford-Dobson on October 27 who will introduce him to Lt Col James Brown, commanding officer of the 4th Military Intelligence Battalion.

The unveiling ceremony will include a short service led by the Mayor’s Chaplain, Reverend Heather Cooper.

Coun Hannaford-Dobson said: “It’s a real honour that the Duke of Kent has kindly agreed to visit us at such an important time in our history and unveil our commemorative plaque for those who lost their lives in the First World War.

“It will be an especially proud moment as alongside us will be soldiers from the 4th Military Intelligence Battalion who play such an important role in today’s Army.”

After the ceremony the Duke will be welcomed into the town hall where he will present soldiers of 4MI Bn, who have the freedom of the town, with service medals and will meet community leaders and civic dignitaries.

He will also be present for the signing of a Community Covenant between Marlborough and the 4MI Bn.

Lt Col Brown said: “This will be a very fitting tribute to those who lost their lives in the Great War.

“It’s also a significant occasion for the Battalion and all the more poignant that His Royal Highness will be awarding medals to our soldiers.”

In April the New Road memorial and the town’s other memorial in Barn Street were given a facelift by Marlborough town council’s grounds team.