PW_4_2025

75th Anniversary

Edinburgh Tattoo 75 years

Thanks to everyone who came along and participated. Special thanks to the staff of the King Robert Hotel, who were all amazing (as was the food all week!), and thanks also to Bryans Coaches and Saltire Executive Transport who provided transportation for trips and airport transfers. One of our visitors, Jim Brown from Ontario, Canada said: “All I can say is Wow, Wow, Wow!!! This was the first IPA experience for Denise and I and it was impressive to say the least. Every aspect of the event was five star from the start to the last hugs upon departure. The accommodations, food and staff were great. ALL of the events were fantastic! We enjoyed each one of them for different reasons, but most of all for the opportunity to interact with many very special new friends. All of the planning to execute the event was fantastic and created many memorable moments for all, and you should all take pride in what was accomplished. These moments are immeasurable as they will continue to expand in the future due to the friendships and bonds that were formed due to your efforts.” And to all our visitors: “Haste Ye Back”

All were given gifts of a glass quaich (cup of friendship), with an oak whisky stave base with IPA tartan cloth insert to hold the quaich. These bases were all hand-made by branch Vice Chair, Dave Smith. The final day on the Friday started with presentations by event organiser, Andy Wright to those who assisted with the organisation and smooth running of the Friendship Week. The coach and tour guides, Mary and Sandy Morton (who also arranged all the coach trips) and Fiona and Harry Morton, photographer for the week Lewis Allen and his partner Carol, and branch members Jim Bayliss (Treasurer), Darren Gibson, Anne Sinclair and Maggie Murdock, and last, but by no means least, Shirley Wright, “the real organiser”. A visit, with a short walk to the Battle of Bannockburn Heritage Centre, next door to the hotel, to learn about the battle in 1314, finished the tours for the week, before a final evening of entertainment by New Day Vocal Harmony and their musicians brought the week to a conclusion with the last song being very appropriate – “Thank You For Being a Friend”. A truly memorable and fantastic week, where the sun shone and friendship flourished and grew.

Men In Kilts Gala Dinner 14 August 2025

POLICE WORLD Vol 70 No.4, 2025

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