Lorraine in command at royal salute

Jun 17 2009 by Gregor White, Stirling Observer Wednesday

TV PRESENTER Lorraine Kelly was in action at Stirling Castle on Saturday, performing her first official engagement as a cadet force’s new honorary colonel.

Lorraine has been appointed to the position with The Black Watch’s Army Cadet Force.

She was inspecting officer at the royal gun salute at Stirling Castle in honour of the Queen’s official birthday.

In addition to joining the ACF’s monthly weekend camps Colonel Kelly will spend time getting to know the cadets and their instructors, attending official functions and representing and promoting the force in her everyday life.

“I am passionate about working with young people and really want to help them develop,” she said.

“When I was originally approached I was very keen to become involved, as it offers me the chance to share some of my experiences so that the cadets can learn different life skills.”

Brigadier David Allfrey, Commander 51 (Scottish) Brigade, said: “She is the perfect example of someone who can exert real influence over the development of young people and can bring a wealth of experience to the role.

“The cadet force is not just about learning drills, as we develop young people physically and mentally, improving self-confidence, teamwork, friendship and leadership.

“Whereas previously we may have appointed someone from a military background, we are now seeking to engage people who represent different sectors of society to ensure our cadets are given guidance and training to equip them for adult life.”

Stirling’s own army cadets, with the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, have been busy gathering military reminiscences as part of a national history project.

Major Gordon Prescott, who lives in Stirling, is being interviewed about his time in the force as part of the Their Past Your Future Scotland event.

And the force is now appealing for more people to come forward and share their memories.

Joyce Steele, manager and curator of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Museum at Stirling Castle, said: “We are appealing for both families and veterans from the regiment to come forward to tell us their stories.

“Indeed, family memories of living overseas, separation of wives and children from husbands and fathers on operations and living in military quarters are of as much interest to the project as the experiences of soldiers serving both at home and abroad.”

The recollections will eventually form online mini-exhibitions and be available as a teaching aid for Scottish schools.

Anyone looking to take part can contact the Argylls on 01786 475165.