More than 100 people from across the country gathered at Edinburgh Castle last night for the Scottish event to mark success in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme, jointly organised by Lowland and Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations.
Maj Gen Mike Riddell-Webster.
Following a reception in the historic Laich (or Low) Hall, guests and hosts moved to the Great Hall where Castle Governor Maj Gen Mike Riddell-Webster welcomed them.
He explained a little of the Hall’s history, having been completed in 1511 for James IV and whose substantial wooden roof is regarded as one of the finest examples of its type in Britain.
During the dinner, a number of vignettes were provided, ranging from the personal experiences of members of the reserve forces, including from Lance Corporal Michael Hashim of the Royal Military Police and Flight Lieutenant John Carolan-Cullion, a Medical Support Officer of 612 Squadron of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force. A complementary perspective was provided by Professor Andrea Nolan, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Napier University, who described the University’s commitment to the reserves and its academic research in support of the Armed Forces community.
Maj Gen Ranald Munro presents the Silver Award to IED Training Solutions Ltd.
The gathering was then treated to an outstanding piping performance provided by pupils of George Heriot’s School, after which the presentation of coveted Employer Recognition Scheme Silver Awards was made by the Chief of the Defence Staff (Reserves and Cadets), Maj Gen Ranald Munro, to an array of employers and employer organisations from across the length and breadth of Scotland.
Following the presentations, Maj Gen Munro addressed the diners, acknowledging from his own experience the challenges and rewards of reserve service and thanking all those who had won Silver Awards for their commitment to the wider Armed Forces family. He concluded his remarks by thanking all those who had contributed to the success of this important and prestigious event and encouraging all the employers who had achieved the Silver Awards to consider ‘going for Gold’.
Damon Scott, Chief Executive, Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, receives Silver from Maj Gen Munro.
Silver Awards were presented to: Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, IED Training Solutions Ltd; Bright Purple Resourcing Ltd; Highlander (Scotland) Ltd; Lothian Buses Ltd; Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce; The Scottish Rugby Union; Scottish Chambers of Commerce; Midlothian Council, and RB Safety Consultants.
Master of Ceremonies duties throughout the evening were ably performed by Brig (Retd) Mark Dodson, Chief Executive of Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association.
HRFCA CE Brig (Retd) Mark Dodson.
Special mention goes to Colin Vooght and his team from Lowland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association who led the planning and delivery of such a memorable evening.
For a full gallery of event pictures, click HERE.
