People across Middlesex will once again come together on 16 May to celebrate Middlesex County Day – the annual celebration of one of Britain’s best-known historic counties.
Promoted by the Historic Counties Institute through RealCounties.com, Middlesex County Day recognises the county’s continuing geographic and cultural identity, despite decades of administrative confusion.
The date commemorates the actions of the 57th (West Middlesex) Regiment at the Battle of Albuhera in 1811, where the regiment earned its famous “Die Hards” nickname after holding its ground against French forces during the Peninsular War. The anniversary later became established as Middlesex Day and is now marked annually by county organisations, heritage groups and residents across Middlesex.
While Middlesex County Council was abolished in the twentieth century, Middlesex itself was not. The historic county continues to exist as a recognised geographic county with roots extending back well over a thousand years.
A spokesperson for the Historic Counties Institute said:
Middlesex County Day is not simply about looking backwards. It is about recognising that Middlesex still exists as a real and enduring county, with a distinct identity that remains visible across sport, culture, heritage and everyday life.
The Middlesex name continues to be widely used by sporting organisations, societies, charities and institutions throughout the county, including Middlesex County Cricket Club and numerous local associations and clubs.
Supporters are encouraged to mark the occasion by flying the Middlesex flag, sharing photographs and memories online, supporting local heritage initiatives and helping raise awareness of the county’s continuing existence.
The Middlesex flag — featuring the traditional three seaxes and Saxon crown on a red field – remains one of the most recognisable county flags in Britain and has been flown above government buildings in Westminster in recognition of Middlesex Day in recent years.
Further information about Middlesex and Britain’s historic counties can be found at RealCounties.com.