The Pass Off parade is a major event in the recruits' training regime. They have rehearsed numerous times for the spectacle you will see. You should have already received a letter from the Troop commander outlining details of the day. Without doubt you will enjoy the day as much as the recruits will.

We look forward to meeting you

Frequently Asked Questions

1.        What should I wear for such an event?

You must remember that your son or daughter has spent the last 14 weeks polishing and cleaning both themselves and their abilities to reach this prestigious day.  It would therefore be advisable to ensure that your attire is both smart and comfortable as you too will be on show to the recruits parading as you sit in the stands.  For gentlemen I would suggest a suit or smart shirt with a collar.  For ladies smart trousers or skirt with a suitable top, hats are of course optional.

2.       Will I need to bring anything for bad weather?

An umbrella is advisable to bring when moving to and from the stands, however all spectator seating is under cover.  With the winter months in mind it is advisable to bring with you some form of warm clothing as you will be required to sit for sometime while the parade takes place. 

3.       Will any refreshments be made available for lunch?

Lunch will be taken after the parade has finished.  It will take place in the soldiers restaurant and will be an opportunity for you to discuss with your son/daughter how well they have done and to meet some of the other families that have come to visit also.

4.       Will I be able to meet the staff, who have looked after my son/daughter for the last 14 weeks?

It is customary that the troop staff will meet the families and recruits in the NAAFI once they have dined at their respective messes,  in order to share with you, the families, some of the interesting stories that have arisen over the previous 14 weeks.

5.       What time should I arrive at the event?

You should aim to arrive for the Troop Commander's briefing at 10 o'clock.

6.       Where can I park?

Parking is available on the carpark behind the Staffordshire Regimental Museum just off of the A51 between Tamworth and Lichfield. The carpark will be clearly signposted.

7.       How should I address the staff?

Your son/daughter will be expected to address the staff as they have been taught, yet it is not expected that you do so in the same way. You will often find that the staff will introduce themselves and ask you to call them by their first name.

8.       When can we leave the parade to return home?

The parade concludes after the Church Service at approximately 1315hrs, however all guests are welcome at the NAAFI until 5 o'clock. Your son/daughter will be required to carry out some administration after the parade and prior to leaving.  Once this has been completed you and your sibling will be free to leave. 

9.       Who can attend the parade?

This is entirely up to yourselves, There is no limit on who you can bring to your son/daughter’s parade, be aware that each person attending will be required to contribute a small sum to the lunch following the parade.  

Do's and Dont's on the day

 

Do arrive in plenty of time.

Do visit the stands and support the recruits.

Feel free to question the training teams.

Do take your seat in the stands in plenty of time.

Do stand when asked to do so.

Do applaud when prizes have been presented.

Do not leave your mobile phone on.

 

Do not go on to the parade square.

Feel free to photograph and video from the stands.

Do not leave the stands until the band have left.

Do make your way straight to the church after the parade.

Feel free to visit the photographer after the church service.

Do make use of the NAAFI facilities.

Timings for the day

 

0930 Training Team Move to Marabout Hall.

1000 Introduction Speech in Marabout Hall by Troop Commander.

1010 Stand 1: Physical Training display in Gymnasium.

1030 Stand 2: Section attack display.

1100 Stand 3: Feeding in the field display.

1120 Move To Marabout Hall.

 

1130 Guests to be seated in stands.

1145 Band Display.

1200 Troop march onto the Parade Square.

1250 Church Service.

1330 Lunch in Cookhouse.

1645 NAAFI Bar closes.

 

Hotels in the local area

1. The George Hotel (3 star), Lichfield. Rates for twin/double room from £120 per room per night. 01543-414822 www.thegeorgelichfield.co.uk

2. Little Barrow Hotel (3 star), Lichfield. Rates for twin/double room £80 per room per night, single £60 prpn 01543-414500 www.lichfield/hotel.com

3. Altair House, Lichfield. Rates for twin room £38 per room per night. 01543-252900

4. Eight The Close, Lichfield. Rates for twin/double room from £48 - £52 per night. 01543-418483 www.ldb.co.uk/accommodation/htm e-mail - gillattheclose.fsnet.co.uk

5. 4 Hayes View, Lichfield. Rates for twin room £35 per night. 01543-53725

6. Holly House, Lichfield. Rates for twin/double room £45 per night. 01543-263078

7. Chimneys, Lichfield. Rates for double room £44 per room per night. 01543-263370 e-mail- chimneys@tiscali.co.uk

8. The Angel Croft Hotel, Lichfield. Rates for twin/double room £82.50

9. Express by Holiday Inn, Shenstone. Rates for twin/double room from £45 - £55 per night. 01543 482700 www.highexpress.co.uk

10. Dog Inn, Whittington. Rates for twin room £42 per room per night. 01543 432252

11. Oak Tree Farm, Hopwas. Rates for twin/double room from £75 per room per night. 01827 56807 Can be found on www.visitlichfield.com

12. 32 Beacon Street, Lichfield. Rates for double room £45 per night. 01543 262378

13. Copper's End, Lichfield. Rates for twin & double room ensuite with shower £50 per room per night, double ensuite with shower & bath £54 per room per night. 01543 372910

14. 16 Dimbles Lane, Lichfield. Rates for double room £36 per room per night. 01543 251107 (Not ensuite)

15. The Hawthorns, 44A Church Street, Whittington. Rates for twin room £48 per room per night, single £25 prpn. 01543 432613

16. Woodlands Grange, Hopwas, Tamworth. Rates £27.50 inc breakfast per night. 01827 311567 www.woodlandsgrange.co.uk 01543-258737

These prices were correct at the time of publishing but please check directly with the hotel concerned.