History of the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment

 

The Loyal North Lancashire Regiment  was formed in 1881 as part of the Cardwell reforms of the British Army.

The Regiment was formed initially with two battalions, the 1st Battalion being created from the former 47th Regiment of Foot, and the 2nd from the former 81st. The Regimental Depot was at Fulwood Barracks, Preston, creating a link which has continued unbroken to the present day.

The Regiment recruited primarily from the towns of Central Lancashire, including Preston, Chorley, Bolton and Wigan.

During World War I the Regiment expanded to a total strength of 21 battalions. They served on the Western Front, at Gallipoli, and in Macedonia, Palestine, East Africa, and Mesopotamia. They were awarded a total of 80 Battle Honours. The Regiment suffered a total of 7590 casualties. Three members of the Regiment were awarded the Victoria Cross.

The Regiment was again expanded in World War II, to a total of 10 battalions. They served in North West Europe, Malaya, North Africa and Italy.

On 25th March 1970 the Regiment amalgamated with The Lancashire Regiment (Prince of Wales's Volunteers),  to form The Queen's Lancashire Regiment.

For a more comprehensive history of the Loyals, follow this link...