Parade of Troops with Band and Crowds Following

For Britons during the Boer War, a welcome opportunity to support the troops - and march alongside them

You can sense the support of the British public for the men who were fighting in South Africa in this parade film from the Boer War era. A military band and civic officials march in front of the soldiers and police help to clear a path. Some members of the crowd show their enthusiasm by joining in the march themselves - look out for the man in the dark coat and hat. The young lads taking a keen interest here would no doubt be old enough to fight in the Great War.

While these parades were a good way for the public to show their gratitude, films of such events could reach a far wider audience. The first shot here gives an unexpected close-up view of the marchers, while other compositions take in the surroundings, giving a now-fascinating survey of busy Victorian streets.