The origins of Colours date back to medieval times when knights placed their armorial bearings on banners.  When the Army began to adopt a regimental system in the 17^th century, each company was allowed to carry a colour. This practice ceased generally after about a hundred years, but they have been retained within the Guards Division where they are still used to mark the location of the Company Headquarters both in peace and war.

 

Individual companies were only brought together as battalions when the need arose, but in 1751 the two Coldstream Battalions were established on a permanent basis.  At about this time, each regiment was allowed two colours; the Royal or First Colour (now known as the Queen’s (or King’s) Colour), and the Regimental Colour.  Over time, the design of the colours has varied greatly, but for the last 150 years or so, they have remained fairly constant.  Various regiments in the British Army have established different practices, but in general, one is based in the Union flag, whilst the other is of a plain material.  Both the Queen’s and Regimental Colours are embellished with a selection of the battle honours awarded to the Regiment.

 

Colours have taken on the greatest significance within armies.  They are the embodiment of the Regiment and when carried into battle they were defended to the last man as to lose your Colours is considered to be great disgrace. As such, Colours are to be paid the highest compliments with even the Monarch saluting them.  Compliments are only paid to an uncased Colour.

 

The Coldstream Guards have also been granted the privilege of two State colours.

 

The Colours are usually housed within the Officers Mess, but whenever they leave the building, they are always escorted.  The colour will usually be carried on by an officer or warrant officer, and they will be escorted by two armed NCO’s with bayonets fixed.

 

When the colours are on parade, a Drummer will always be detailed to carry a colour case, so the colours can be cased if it rains. 

 

On the anniversary of certain battle honours and other events, the Colours are decked with a laurel wreath.

New Colours of the 1st Battalion and Number 7 Company Coldstream Guards