'Incredibly lucky' Ross-shire Explorer Scout sees history in making at King's coronation after special selection
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A DINGWALL teenager witnessed history in the making after being selected to attend the King's coronation at Westminster Abbey in London.
As millions watched the ceremony on TV, Explorer Scout Gregor Phillips was at the event in person as one of 50 UK Scouts – including six from Scotland – selected to attend.
It was even more special for the 14-year-old as his great great grandparents had attended the Queen's coronation in 1953 when his great-great grandfather was minister of Crathie Church – the church attended by the royal family when they are staying at Balmoral Castle.
SEE ALSO: Black Isle bishop's ringside on history at side of the King
Kilted Explorer Scouts cut a dash on Polish parkrun
And see this week's Ross-shire Journal from coronation pictures from Ross-shire
"We still have the flags that they took to the coronation and my grandparents often tell us how proud my great-great grandparents were to be invited," he said.
Gregor, who is also a young leader at Culbokie Beaver Scouts, said he felt "incredibly lucky" to attend and be a part of history.
"It is an honour to be asked to support the coronation," he said.
"This would not have been possible without Scouts. Being a part of the Scout community continues to open amazing doors for me – which I am forever grateful for.
"As well as coming together to celebrate this momentous occasion, it was so great that we were able to support various activities and general management throughout the event."
Gregor, who has completed his Chief Scout Gold Award, was the only Highland Scout in the group which represented 500,000 UK members.
Scouts played a key role in supporting the coronation including helping with crowd stewarding, supporting the public who were there to celebrate with the King, route lining and providing first aid services.
They were also responsible for managing the huge crowds at locations such as the big screen in St James Park, Hyde Park, Green Park, and the Admiralty Arch.
Following the service, the group met American pop sensation Katy Perry who performed at the coronation concert at Windsor Castle the following day.
During the visit, they stayed at Gilwell Park, the international Scout headquarters in Chingford, London.
On his return home, Gregor related his experiences to Culbokie Beavers.
Lyndsey Johnston, who is one of the leaders and also a Black Isle councillor, said the youngsters had been enraptured to hear about Gregor's experiences.
"Their jaws just dropped," she said.
"Gregor is a fantastic young leader and has so much enthusiasm and is so good with the young ones."
