Banffshire Lord Lieutenant Andrew Simpson: King Charles III's coronation marked in "marvellous manner" in Banffshire and London
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MANY people across the historic county of Banffshire were celebrating the coronation of King Charles III at the weekend.
However, few will have experienced it in the manner that the area's lord lieutenant Andrew Simpson was able to.
He described experiencing the coronation in London, as well as attending a number of well-run local events.
There are a few people who can remember both the 1937 and 1953 coronations, Andrew writes. For most of us a coronation was a new experience.
No doubt the organisers had this in mind when they sought to balance the world of 2023 with traditions that can be traced back to Columba and Aedan, the king of Dal Riata, in 574AD.
Tickets to attend the event were fewer than in 1953 with just 2000 guests rather than 7000.
While political representatives and celebrities were present, so too were hundreds of people who had gained the BEM for their contributions to their local communities.
Banffshire’s representatives were Des Cheyne (Banff) and Duncan Leece (Boyndie Centre).
Members of the congregation were given access to the Abbey from 7.15am with the service starting at 11am.
As people waited, there was a friendly buzz of conversation allowing people to share stories with neighbours.
It was a wonderful opportunity to hear about the tremendous community activities and good works that are happening across the country.
The organisers of the coronation aimed to balance the traditional and the heritage with the contemporary.
In 1953, the music was entirely written by men. This time pieces from six female composers were played.
Zadok the Priest resonated round the Abbey as it has done since 1727 when Handel wrote it for the coronation of George II.
In contrast the Ascension Gospel Choir captivated everyone as they sang and danced to a new piece written for the occasion.
The presence and contributions of the leaders of many faith groups was a statement of the inclusive nature of society.
The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland once more had the role of presenting a Bible to the King.
The King wanted the Coronation weekend to demonstrate some of his priorities. Reflecting these, the Banffshire Lieutenancy Team presented wildflower seeds to every primary school in the historic county – a sign of the King’s love for the environment.
The Big Lunch provided opportunities for people to gather together – another of the King’s priorities.
Across Banffshire communities over 30 events were held – many involving food. From hog roasts to picnics, and from afternoon teas to soup many people spent time with each other.
Along with food, there was fun. The vintage car rally organised by the Buckie Rotary was a huge attraction along the coast.
The family fun day in Banff Castle attracted hundreds of people to watch dancers and enjoy the music of local pipe bands and others. Building and encouraging communities has long been a passion of the King.
Volunteering is a third priority for the King. The Big Help Out aimed to recognise the important role of volunteers.
Litter picking, practical work by Men’s Sheds, serving food and spending time with others were ways in which locally people volunteered.
The weekend was a time to celebrate the contributions of volunteers and the Banffshire Lieutenancy Team enjoyed attending events and meeting so many dedicated people who had helped organise these activities.
They are to be congratulated on their hard work and imagination.
Alongside the formality, pageantry and awesome music of the service, the local events have created positive memories for many individuals and communities.
Reflecting the themes of the environment, community and volunteering the Coronation of HM King Charles III has been marked in a marvellous and outstanding manner here in Banffshire.
