King of Scots descendant presented key to Edinburgh Castle in formal ceremony
Major General Alastair Bruce of Crioniach assumed the role in 2019, but the Coronavirus pandemic pushed back his official appointment.
The Governor of Edinburgh Castle was “thrilled” to finally be installed in a traditional ceremony, dating back to the eleventh century.
As Governor, General Alastair Bruce supports the General Officer of Scotland, who oversees all army personnel in Edinburgh.
For him, it was an honour to be given a role which reflects his devotion to Scotland.
He said: “As a descendant of Robert the Bruce and as a Bruce at heart, I feel it’s a great privilege to be part of this military tradition of Scotland - which has been woven like a sort of golden thread throughout our time, and from which every Scot can take enormous pride.”
The General chose to be installed on June 24, to coincide with the anniversary of the battle of Bannockburn.
The historical clash saw his ancestor lead Scotland to victory over England in the first Scottish war of independence in 1314.
In an occasion worth the wait – the ceremony saw the Governor officially presented to the Castle garrison.
A statement confirming his appointment - signed by the Queen and First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, was read aloud by Lord Lyon King of Arms.
Finally, he was handed the key to Edinburgh castle, symbolising his responsibility for the manor and his role to protect Scotland.
One can’t help but wonder how Robert the Bruce would feel if was here to see this: “I think Robert the Bruce would expect me to do a good job,” General Alastair said.
He continued: “He’d expect me to be militarily competent, in the way that all military people should.”
“But I think that he’ll probably recognize that as a Bruce, I’m as proud as he always was of Scotland.”