THE Lord Mayor of York, Coun Irene Waudby, took the salute from the steps of the Mansion House today as Army cadets from the city marched proudly past to celebrate a new honour.

Members of B Company, Yorkshire (North and West) Army Cadet Force, had just been presented with a new banner and coat of arms by the Lord Mayor, at a special presentation at her official residence.

The event took place with a flourish of military pomp and ceremony, and army officers wore black armbands in memory of the Queen Mother.

A 16-strong banner guard flanking a centre-piece display of drums and flags, came smartly to attention as the Lord Mayor and civic party entered the State Room. After an address by Coun Waudby, the standard was handed over to the three-cadet banner party.

Major Russell Hills, officer commanding B Company, thanked the Lord Mayor and the City of York for the "great honour".

Updated: 13:13 Saturday, April 06, 2002