Culzean Castle was transformed over the weekend of August 30/31. There was a marvellous display of weaponry, vehicles and other equipment, and you could watch what was cooking in the field kitchen, as well as watch weapon firing and displays. Plus there was an  array of military personnel throughout history.  Maybole Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland (RBLS) was again invited by the National Trust for Scotland to conduct a Parade and Beating Retreat during the Forces in the Field event.

Escort to the Colours was Alex Gemmell of the Maybole Branch and the Beating Retreat made maximum use of the Culzean Castle and Country Park area by marching between each phase with Standard Bearers, Branch members, youth organisations and the Riders Branch on their motorcycles. The Salute was taken by the National President of the Legion – Lieutenant General Sir Alistair Irwin KCB CBE. The Maybole Branch, working closely with RBLS Headquarters and the Ayrshire Area, coordinated the event which featured Edinburgh Central (Postal) Pipe Band & Dancers and Cockenzie & Port Seton RBL Pipes and Drums.

The RBLS helps ex-services men and women of all ages across Scotland to adapt to civilian life by providing community, friendship and practical advice, whether they left military service yesterday or 50 plus years ago. From specialist disablement pensions advice and welfare support, to providing a listening ear and fundraising for remembrance, all their activities and services are about making a real difference to the lives of ex-servicemen and women and their families.

The RBLS has over 170 branches and 40,000 members from Lerwick to Dumfries in locations ranging from the capital city to rural villages. Members lead and help to organise Remembrance events around Scotland, work with schools and young people, and provide vital support to other veterans’ charities to fundraise for veterans’ causes.