Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal Inspects Combined Cadet Force and Unveils New Memorial Board
The Bedford School community was honoured to welcome a distinguished royal visitor on Wednesday 18 March 2026, as Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal attended the school to review the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) contingents from Bedford School, Bedford Girls’ School, Bedford Modern School and Bedford Greenacre Independent School as part of their Annual General Inspection (AGI).
Upon arrival, Her Royal Highness was received by HM Lord‑Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Susan Lousada, before being introduced to the Head Teachers of the four schools and their Contingent Commanders. The parade then formed up for a general salute, followed by a detailed inspection and concluding with a full march‑past.
Under a brilliant cobalt-blue sky on the warmest day of the year so far, the cadets stood with admirable poise and discipline, with the spring sunlight helping to ensure that the contingents presented an impressive and memorable sight on the school playing field.
Major Peter Lumley‑Wood, Contingent Commander of Bedford School CCF, commented, “We are extremely honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to school as the Reviewing Officer for our Combined Cadet Force Annual General Inspection. The CCF is composed of sections from the three Armed Services so, given Her Royal Highness serves as an Admiral, Air Chief Marshal and Colonel in Chief of the Intelligence Corps – the cap badge worn by our cadets in our Army Section – it is difficult to think of anyone more appropriate or better qualified.”
Following the inspection, Her Royal Highness proceeded to the Bedford School Memorial Hall to unveil a new Memorial Board commemorating 21 Old Bedfordians who lost their lives in the First World War. These individuals were identified through extensive research undertaken by the Old Bedfordians Office and local historians. Their names now join the 756 Old Bedfordians already honoured from both the First and Second World Wars – this is particularly poignant as the Memorial Hall itself marks its centenary year.
Relatives of the newly recognised Old Bedfordians were present for the unveiling, providing a personal connection to the occasion. Their attendance reflected the school’s values of kindness and integrity and underscored the community’s commitment to ensuring that every life lost continues to be remembered with dignity and respect.
Head Master, Mr James Hodgson, said, “It was an absolute privilege to welcome Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to school for this important and poignant occasion. Today allowed us not only to celebrate the dedication and professionalism of cadets from all four schools in Bedford, but also to honour the memory of Old Bedfordians whose stories deserve to be preserved and remembered. This new Memorial Board ensures that their legacy will continue to inspire a spirit of service in future generations.”
The visit stands as a proud moment for all four schools, one that highlights the strength of the Combined Cadet Forces across Bedford and reaffirms the enduring importance of service, remembrance and community in the life of Bedford School.
