T H E C O V E N A N T E R
The Regimental Plot - prepared by Mr Eddie Clark and his daughter Helen
Majesty The Queen, who would be the regiment, whereupon she asked if I
conducting a review of the regimental was responsible for, and the laying out of
plots. The letter went on to say that our plot, I answered in the affirmative.
security arrangements for the event would After a few seconds looking at the plot she
be on a massive scale, and emphasising remarked “Very Nice” and moved on.
that only one regimental representative During my lifetime I have met many
would be allowed to stand in front of each famous (and infamous) and prominent
plot, enclosed with the letter of notification people, but this was the pinnacle for me. It
I received a security pass to attach to my was a feeling of great satisfaction that I had
clothing. met this wonderful lady as a representative
On the 6th of November my daughter of The Cameronians (Scottish Rifles)
Helen and I set out for Westminster Abbey especially during this; Her Golden Jubilee
with all the crosses and regimental crests Year.
tucked away in the boot of my car. By the You may recall, that in the last issue of
time we reached the Abbey, the rain which The Covenanter I reported that I was the
had been coming down steadily now only person to attend last years opening of
became torrential, after sitting in the car the Field of Remembrance. I then appealed
for ten minutes it became evident that this for people to come forward for the next
torrent would be with us for a good length opening service. Well, this year I was
of time. A decision was then made, we absolutely delighted when the following
must leave the car and brave the torrential came “On Parade”, Major P.R. Grant, Major
elements and get on with the job. This we M.D. Sixsmith, Alan (Doc) Halliday Ex 1st
did. Bn., Bill Kennedy, Tom Gore, both Ex 9th
By contrast, the 7th November dawned Bn. and myself Ex 2nd and 1st Bns., Mr
sunny and bright, with a cool westerly Bert Abbott and Alex McBride. It was a
breeze. As in years gone by the attendance gratifying experience to meet and have an
once again at this moving and poignant albeit short chat with them. Thank you all
occasion was vast. Despite this, the police for coming to pay your respects.
did a first class security job, their efficiency Just before I sign off, I would like to
on checking and searching people was congratulate ex WO II Glen Cowie, and his
accompanied by a terrific sense of humour. wife Nan on the occasion of their Golden
At approximately 11.20hrs Her Majesty Wedding Anniversary. I’ll be there in Nerja,
The Queen arrived and a short service Spain on January 17th to take part in the
began, followed by the ritual two minutes celebration.
silence. This completed, Her Majesty Well, that’s it for another year, and as
began her review and inspection of usual I am looking forward to representing
the regimental plots. On arrival at our the Regiment here in the Metropolis again
Cameronian plot, Her Majesty stopped; next year.
and I reported to her that I was representing Eddie Clark
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