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Stranraer-born General is New Edinburgh Castle Governor

The Stranraer-born general who rose from the rank of private to take over command of the Army in Scotland and the North of England, has been installed to the historic post of Governor of Edinburgh Castle.

The traditional ceremony dating back to 1177 saw Major General David McDowall receive the key to the castle with a march past by the ceremonial guard and the Lord Lyon and his entourage.

He said: “I was simply thrilled about it … gosh what a great day for a soldier”.

General McDowall, who went straight into the Royal Corps of Signals from Stranraer Academy, was appointed officer commanding the Army’s 2nd Division taking in Scotland the North of England, earlier this year.

And his installation comes just a few weeks before the glamour event of the Tattoo at the Castle.

His duties as Governor are mainly ceremonial, but do include memorial services at the National War Memorial at the castle.

The traditional ceremony was held on Friday evening with music provided by the band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Royal Corps of Signals.