5 SCOTS Prepare For Ceremonial Guard Duties

Soldiers from The Royal Regiment Of Scotland's Balaklava Company have been putting in their final preparations ahead of performing ceremonial guard duties in London.

5 SCOTS are set to takeover ceremonial duties next month but to be deemed ready they have to pass their 'Fit For Role Inspection'.

To ensure they pass the test, training on the parade ground of Redford Barracks has been stepped up.

Private Ryan Jennison described the training as "very different".

He added: "Never would I have thought I would be doing parades for the royal family so it's a good experience and it's good training, I have been really enjoying myself."

The company is already responsible for ceremonial duties in Scotland, providing the guard of honour at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, as well as providing the Queen's Guard at Balmoral Castle.

In London, the soldiers will perform ceremonial guard duties at places like Buckingham Palace, St James's Palace and the Tower Of London.

They will also undertake the role at Windsor Castle in nearby Berkshire.

Major Johnny Thompson spoke a little about the history between the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the ceremonial guard duties in London.

"The last time the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders were on parade was 1988, in Windsor, and then prior to that 1979," Major Johnny Thompson explained.

"It's nice to be able to fly the flag for the Royal Regiment of Scotland in London." 

For many soldiers from 5 SCOTS , taking on the role fills them with great pride as they represent the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

But with a role that has so many people watching on, Warrant Officer Steven Gibson knows there is no room for mistakes.

"We have to get it right, especially as we are ambassadors for the Royal Regiment Scotland," he explained.

"There will be a good 9,000/10,000 people watching us on the first day."

"It will be a big, big day for us all."

5 SCOTS will now enjoy an Easter break before facing a tougher test on their return to ensure they are ready for duties in the capital.