THE Royal Regiment of Scotland accepted the Freedom of Moray on Saturday.

A large crowd turned out to watch 140 soldiers and the Shetland pony mascot, Corporal Cruachan IV, march along Elgin High Street with their pipes and drums.

In recognition of their service, The Royal Regiment of Scotland have received the Freedom of Moray in a ceremony taking place on the Plainstones in Elgin. Picture: Beth TaylorIn recognition of their service, The Royal Regiment of Scotland have received the Freedom of Moray in a ceremony taking place on the Plainstones in Elgin. Picture: Beth Taylor
Major General Robin Lindsay, Colonel of the regiment, accepted the freedom from Councillor John Cowe, civic leader of Moray Council.


Lieutenant Major General Seymour Monro, Moray’s Lord Lieutenant, took the salute from the 5 Scots Balaklava Company of the 5th Battalion at the Plainstones.

He said: “That strong relationship between the military and the communities of Moray is in our DNA.

“I was proud to be a Highland soldier for 35 years and I am very proud now as Lord Lieutenant to see such an excellent parade by Balaklava company.

“I am proud to witness the Royal Regiment of Scotland so deservedly receiving the freedom of Moray.”

Cllr Cowe said: “It is with great pride and respect that I confer the highest honour that Moray can bestow. Moray has a strong bond with the military.

“It is a mark of deep appreciation and recognition of the extraordinary service and sacrifice demonstrated by the Royal Regiment of Scotland.”

And Major General Lindsay added: “Moray has been a wonderful host for the armed forces for generations, not only at Kinloss and Lossiemouth but at neighbouring Fort George.”

He singled out two local soldiers and recipients of the Victoria Cross.

Lieutenant William Rennie, a Cameronian, was one of the first to receive the highest honour for gallantry in 1857 and he is buried at Elgin Cemetery and Sergeant Alexander Edwards of the Seaforth Highlanders from Lossiemouth, who won a Victoria Cross on the first day of the Battle of Passchendaele in World War One.

The Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire, Andrew Simpson, paid tribute to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and local volunteers who keep the graves of so many veterans in pristine condition.