87th of Foot in Barossa
On 28th February 2011, 32 members of the 87th of Foot, the Royal Irish Fusiliers, gathered in Jerez for the start of a 7 day tour of the battlefields of the Peninusla War organised through Anglia Tours.
Unlike their forebears, who crossed to the Peninsula in bad weather then journeyed across country on foot, the party which was led by Anglia Guide Andrew Duff and included General David O’Morchoe, late Colonel of the Regiment and Head of the Murphy Clan, enjoyed warm sunshine whilst travelling in the comfort of an air conditioned coach.
A packed itinerary took them to Barrosa and Tarfia before heading south to Gibraltar on the fourth day. Here everyone enjoyed a trip to the top of the Rock via the cable car, a visit to the Siege Tunnels and a poignant stroll around the Trafalgar Cemetery that holds a number of Nelson's 'brave lads' who were laid to rest here and in the general area after the famous battle in 1805. The tour culminated in the party attending a ceremonial dinner in Cadiz on 5th March 2011 marking the 200th Anniversary of the Battle of Barrosa, the day on which Ensign Keogh of the 87th Foot captured the first French Eagle to be taken.
In the words of Major Arthur French, who co-ordinated the tour on behalf of the Regimental Association We were all delighted with the tour. Andrew Duff was excellent and had taken a great deal of trouble particularly with presenting Barrosa, and held the interest of the Ladies so that on all days bar one, they were all on the coach and remained as a group instead of shopping. The administration was faultless"
Having established an excellent working relationship with the Association over the past year, Anglia Tours are looking forward to being of further service in the future by arranging other tours that we are sure will be as enjoyable.
Posted on: 18.03.2011
