They have the distinction of surviving one of the bloodiest conflicts in modern history.

And nearly 200 years after the British Army captured them from Napoleon's troops, they are still the cause of international friction.

The military drum and mace, seized at the Battle of Waterloo, are a remarkable memento of the day Britain helped to break France's domination of Europe.

But the fact the artefacts from 1815 are kept at Catterick Garrison still rankles across the channel.

Last week in Richmond Castle, the drums were used to sound the battle cry once more. Soldiers from the Army base recreated the Duke of Wellington spirit by giving a performance using the old instrument.

The Waterloo March by the garrison's military band will also be seen at a fireworks concert at the castle at the weekend.

The drums have been under British guard for 185 years since being captured by the 34th Foot Regiment, from Cumberland, during a battle at the village of Arroyo dos Molinos, in Spain, prior to the Waterloo conflict.

But while our boys' efforts are recognised in a letter of congratulations from the village's mayor each year, the drums' capture remains a source of resentment across the channel.

Major Jerry Hartley, of the King's Own Royal Border Regiment at Bourlon Barracks, where the drums are housed, said there had been frequent calls for their return to France.

He said: "The French regiment asks for them back periodically. It is very similar to the Elgin Marbles, although not on the same political scale.

"But every year, on our regimental day, we get a letter of congratulations from the Spanish authorities saying thanks for coming to our aid 200 years ago."

A narrated musical score of the Battle of Waterloo will feature in entertainment at Richmond Castle on Saturday and Sunday.

Further attractions will include The Phantom of the Opera and the theme to Star Wars set to fireworks.