Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell welcomed the Founder and Chairperson of Southwest Scotland RnR Jennefer Tobin to a reception held by the Scotland Office at Dover House to mark the Trooping the Colour. The Trooping the Colour parade re-enacts this ceremony as part of the Queens Official Birthday Celebrations, watched by invited guests and officials.
The Colours of a regiment were traditionally used in battle as an identifying mark and were trooped in front of the soldiers every day to make sure that they recognised those of his own regiment. This year’s colours were those of the Blues and Royals, who have been on active duty in Afghanistan twice since 2007. This and the regiment’s connection to Scotland made Jennefer’s presence this year very fitting. The charity provides holidays for returning troops, providing space for outdoor activities.
So far the project has helped over 170 personnel, who have come to stay for a week in Dumfries & Galloway. This project aims to give people a way to show their admiration and provide practical support and encouragement to those soldiers. RnR believes is the job of government and institutions to show how the nation appreciates their courage and their willingness to fight but that is for us as individuals to say to these truly brave young men and women; thank you, now come and have some fun.
Commenting Mr Mundell said: “This year’s Trooping the Colour was extra special given it is Her Majesties Diamond Jubilee and it was great to welcome people like Jennefer who have done so much for service personnel along.
“Southwest RnR is a fantastic organisation and the forces who have been helped really appreciate the independent individual focused support Jennefer and her team offer. I am keen to do whatever I can to promote the work they are doing."