The Queen has paid tribute to two retiring Borders lord lieutenants, thanking them for 34 years’ combined service as her representatives.
The monarch’s message was read at a reception, held on Monday in the Scottish Borders Council chamber, to honour Major Alexander Trotter and Sir David Younger.
Also present was Jeanna Swann, the new Lord Lieutenant of Berwickshire, accompanied by her husband, Richard, and also Lady Pamela Strachan, wife of Sir Hew Strachan , the new Lord Lieutenant of Tweeddale, who was unable to attend.
Captain Gerald Maitland Carew, Lord Lieutenant of Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale, was also in attendance, accompanied by his wife, Rosalind. Major Trotter retired from his position earlier this year, having served as Lord Lieutenant of Berwickshire for 14 years.
His service saw him awarded the CVO by The Queen last year. Sir David served as Lord Lieutenant of Tweeddale for 20 years and was knighted by the Queen last year.
Scottish Borders Council convener Graham Garvie told those attending: “I know that I speak not only for everyone in this chamber, but also for many thousands of other Borderers when I express to both of you our sincere thanks and warm congratulations for a superb job, well done.”
The two men were then presented with Border reiver statuettes.