Presentation of new colours to 9th and 12th Companies of the Irish Guards by the King
10th June 2024Windsor Castle
Carolyn and I, together with our IPM Elise Rasmussen and Clerk Sandra, were privileged to be invited by our friends in the Irish Guards to attend the presentation of new colours to Nos 9 and 12 Companies of the Irish Guards by His Majesty The King, at Windsor Castle.
In contrast to a similar ceremony a couple of years ago, the size of the audience was much smaller and the weather was very chilly, compared to the baking heat of the last occasion. It was windy which made it worse and certainly did not help my hairstyle!
As always, the parade was led by Seamus the Irish Guards' mascot wolfhound, together with the band, and it passed off flawlessly, with everybody carrying out their part with great precision.
The King presented the colours, made a speech and then retired past our section of the audience, stopping to speak to the row in front of us. He looked well and in good spirits, which was very encouraging given his recent treatment. Unfortunately, the Princess of Wales who is the Colonel of the Regiment could not be there.
Afterwards, we walked down to Victoria Barracks for a buffet lunch in the Officers' Mess, where we met met many current and former officers and commanding officers of the regiment, together with some other Liverymen with links to the Irish Guards. As always, most interesting conversations and great hospitality.
All in all, a wonderful day!