The Duke of Edinburgh has presented the pipe band at his former school, Gordonstoun in Moray, with a royal banner during a visit to north-east Scotland on Tuesday. The banner, emblazoned with the Duke of Edinburgh's badge, will be carried by the boarding school's student pipe major, commemorating the band's 70-year anniversary.
Celebrating 70 years of the Duke of Edinburgh Award
During his trip, Edward also participated in events marking seven decades of the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a scheme initiated by his father, Prince Philip, which became a national programme in 1956. Like other members of the royal family, Edward attended Gordonstoun as a child and graduated in 1982.
Headteacher's remarks
Gordonstoun's head, Simon Cane-Hardy, expressed pride in the pipe band's association with the royal family, noting their regular performances at the annual Braemar Gatherings attended by King Charles III and the late Queen Elizabeth II. In 2023, the band received the championship shield for the best pipe band from the King, and they played a special role during the coronation celebrations in Scotland. Cane-Hardy described the presentation of the banner as a "special moment" and a testament to the band's dedication and talent.
Origin of the banner
The idea for the royal banner originated from the pipe band's founder, who approached the Duke of Edinburgh. Former Gordonstoun student Graham Neil, 88, suggested that as a former pupil and Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward should be asked if the band could carry a banner with his crest. The banner has been formally approved by the Court of the Lord Lyon, Scotland's heraldic authority.
