White Nancy given a Napoleonic makeover

Cheshire East helped launch a special event to commemorate the bicentenary of the Battle of Waterloo.

The landmark battle took place outside Brussels on June 18, 1815. The decisive defeat of the forces of France’s Emperor Napoleon established a new balance of power for generations.

The Duke of Wellington’s victory at Waterloo is seen by many as one of the most significant in British history – and British troops did not fight and die on western European soil again for another 99 years.

As a Borough, Cheshire East has few direct links to the Battle of Waterloo. However, the iconic White Nancy landmark, built on the edge of the Saddle of Kerridge, overlooking the village of Kerridge and Bollington town, was built in 1817 to commemorate the victory.

Yesterday evening saw a commemorative run/walk to the landmark, to celebrate the bicentenary of the historic battle.

The White Nancy has even been given a smart Napoleonic makeover to mark the occasion – complete with silhouettes of figures in period costume – and will provide the focus of a community led festival running from 19-21 June.

Councillor Gordon Baxendale, Cheshire East Council’s armed forces champion, who officially started the commemorative 2km run/walk from Bollington Recreation Ground to White Nancy yesterday, said: “The Battle of Waterloo was a landmark victory for Britain and her allies – in which Napoleon was finally defeated once and for all – and a real turning point in European history.

“It was fitting to commemorate those events, and those who fought and died at Waterloo, exactly 200 years later at a landmark created here to honour that famous victory.

“It was marvellous also to see so many people take part in the run and cheer on the participants and I am sure the festival this weekend will be a tremendous occasion.”

As well as commemorating the victory and promoting the White Nancy Waterloo 200 Festival, the run/walk event also highlighted the beautiful countryside of Cheshire East and the work of Cheshire East Council’s public rights of way and ranger services.