THE royal Prince Edward who has been the colonel of the Scots Guards for the last 50 years has resigned the post – and will be replaced by another royal called Prince Edward.
The 88-year-old Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, a cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth, is to be replaced as the ceremonial head of the Scottish regiment by the 60-year-old Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, the current king’s younger brother.
The change will have no real impact, and was called out by republican campaigner Graham Smith.
“Man few have heard of leaving a position few knew he had,” he quipped in response to a BBC headline on the story.
The BBC reported that the resigning Edward’s 50 years as colonel of the Scots Guards meant he was the longest serving holder of the role.
The 88-year-old said: "Through those years, I have seen the work of the Scots Guards during peacetime and war and witnessed their bravery, selfless courage and devotion to duty.
"To my fellow Scots Guardsmen, I am immensely proud to have served you all.
“I am delighted that His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will continue to champion all that you do and work towards preserving your great legacy."
The Scots Guards are one of the five Foot Guards in the British Army, along with the Irish, Welsh, Grenadier and Coldstream Guards.
They carry out ceremonial duties in support of royals at state events and their history can be traced back to 1642.
The younger Prince Edward said: "The Duke of Kent has been an extraordinary colonel of the Scots Guards.
“Quite apart from his depth of knowledge and keen understanding of the regiment and all those who serve, past and present, he has been a tireless and passionate advocate.
"It is a distinct honour to be asked and entrusted by His Majesty to serve as the next colonel.
“However, I accept with a degree of trepidation as I will undoubtedly be measured against the formidable record and reputation of my predecessor. I can only promise to do my best."
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