Based on the colour of their uniform, the regiment was nicknamed "the Oxford Blues", or simply the "Blues. It was initially disbanded following the Stuart Restoration , before being re-constituted in the wake of the Venner Riots and creation of the English Army on 26 January Early duties focused on internal policing and domestic security, with three troops based primarily in Canterbury , Southwark , and Bagshot.
The following year The Blues were part of the allied army that defeated the French at Walcourt , near Charleroi , when they charged the best French infantry, leaving 2, dead. During the early eighteenth century the Blues were widely dispersed throughout the north country. Following the outbreak of the War of the Austrian Succession in , the Royals became part Honywood's brigade, arriving in Flanders in August This great soldier understood the importance of morale. In the mould of John Ligonier, 1st Earl Ligonier , a predecessor, he established a brave and efficient force.
His successor, Henry Seymour Conway was one of the greatest colonels the regiment ever had over a year period. Granby however, retained a passionate interest in the welfare of The Blues; his generosity and hospitality expressed later in a legion of public houses. Granby was in charge of the second division at Battle of Minden Heath in August The Blues posted sentries called Vedettes , who were so close when the French attacked that the regiment was thrown back.
The Blues were eager to charge in after the infantry surge to Minden walls, but owing to Lord George Sackville 's orders the reinforcements were delayed. Sackville was court-martialled and found guilty of disobeying orders. Lieutenant-Colonel Johnston went to recruit in England; and found the Dragoon Guards who wanted to join for the superior conditions in The Blues.
Granby was depressed by his son's death and that of his wife too, and the loss of his stud, so he decided to set up a Widows' Fund, and to provide better regimental medical care.
