A PLAQUE commemorating the Lancashire Fusiliers' victory at the Battle of Minden was unveiled on Saturday (August 1) – 256 years after the event.

Bury’s Mayor, Councillor Stella Smith revealed the new plaque alongside representatives of The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, Colonel Jon Swift, the Area Colonel for Lancashire, Colonel Brian Gorski, Colonel Mike Glover, Helen Smith general manager of the Fusilier Museum, and Mill Gate manager Marie Gribben.

The new plaque depicting an image of the regiment and background on the Battle of Minden has been created in consultation with the Fusilier Museum.

It is displayed in a prominent position in Minden Parade, within the Mill Gate centre, alongside the original plaque that was put up in 2002.

Marie Gribben said: “It is a real honour for Mill Gate to be part of the commemoration of the invaluable contribution made by local men in this iconic victory.

“In association with The Fusilier Museum and Colonel Eric Davison we felt it was our duty to be part of this celebration of Minden.”

Hundreds of local men from the 20th Regiment of Foot - latterly the Lancashire Fusiliers - took part in the iconic victory at Minden against the French in the Seven Years War.

The soldiers wore roses in their hats, picked from the hedgerows to go in to battle against the French cavalry.

Battle ensued and as the fighting reached a climax, a misunderstood order launched several battalions of British Infantry, including the 20th Regiment of Foot, towards the French.

The battalions advanced in line against French guns and repeated attacks by cavalry.

The British infantry fought off several attacks and continued the advance that resulted in the defeat of the French Army.

This incredible feat of arms had never been achieved before or after the Battle of Minden.

The Battle of Minden is commemorated to this day by serving retired members of the regiment by wearing red and yellow roses.