Today, Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland proudly formed the Guard of Honour to officially mark His Majesty The King’s arrival at Balmoral.
Pipers and drums of the Royal Corps Of Signals exits Balmoral palace for the Parade.
Cpl Cruachan IV, the Mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotland on parade for His Majesty The King.
His Majesty The King chats to Colour Sergeant Christopher Morrison.
Balaklava Company, although an independent rifle company, are renowned for their ceremonial presence in Scotland, with Royal Guard in Balmoral being one of their most privileged positions.
Taking on the role of His Majesty The King’s Royal Guard Commander at Balmoral is an immense honour and to be given the responsibility of upholding this fine long-standing highland tradition during such a significant occasion is a real privilege which will never be forgotten.
This was the first Royal Guard for Major Neil Cargill as Officer Commanding Balaklava Company. Neil only took over the role in July this year and said:
“Taking on the role of His Majesty The King’s Royal Guard Commander at Balmoral is an immense honour and to be given the responsibility of upholding this fine long-standing highland tradition during such a significant occasion is a real privilege which will never be forgotten. Building on our proud and renowned history, and strengthening our allegiance to our Colonel in Chief and our native land. Sláinte an Righ, Sláinte dhuibh uile gu léir.”
The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland and The Pipes and Drums of the Royal Corps of Signals also performed at the ceremony.
This is the first time for the Pipes and Drums of the Royal Corps of Signals have had the privilege of performing at Balmoral led by Corps Pipe Major Mark Black and Drum Major Peter Pearson.
Shetland pony, Cpl Cruachan IV (the mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotland), who is no stranger to Balmoral, was also present.
Following the arrival ceremony, The King’s Royal Guard proudly paraded through Ballater with the Ballater Colour, from East Bridge to Victoria Bridge past the War memorial.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire, Alexander (Sandy Manson) took the Salute with Commander 51 Infantry Brigade and Headquarters Scotland, Brigadier Jody Davies MBE, also in attendance.
Balaklava Company will remain on Royal Guard in Balmoral for the duration of The King's Summer stay.