The Captain-General’s Baton toured the Isle of Man yesterday to mark 300 years of the Royal Artillery and the island’s connection with the regiment.
The baton began the day long tour at Ronaldsway and travelled around the island visiting landmarks such as the Laxey Wheel, Snaefell and Peel Cathedral.
It also visited the National War Memorial at Tynwald and war memorials at Castle Rushen, Onchan and Douglas. The tour finished with a reception at the Manx Legion Hall in Douglas where Ray Harmer MHK presented the newly launched Isle of Man Post Office Royal Artillery stamp collection, which celebrates the Artillery’s long history, to Lieutenant Colonel Lindsey Forbes RA the Commanding Officer of 103 Royal Artillery.
The Queen’s baton has been touring the world since May 1 last year and will have visited more than 25 countries when the tour comes to an end on May 26.
A greetings message to The Queen, who is the Royal Artillery’s Captain-General, is contained within the baton.
Terry Smith said on behalf of the Isle of Man Royal Artillery Association: ‘The Isle of Man Branch of the Royal Artillery Association is one of the largest branches. We have a proud distinction of carrying on the traditions of not only the Royal Artillery, but also the history of Manxmen and women serving in the conflicts on behalf of the British Isles.
‘We have the honour of being the only Association Branch to be included in the ceremonies that have followed the Captain-General’s Baton around the world, the Isle of Man should be proud of its history serving the Crown, and the men should be proud to be Gunners.’
Honorary Colonel Charles Wilson, who was instrumental in coordinating the visit to the island, said: ‘The visit means so much at a local level and reflects the island’s close association with the Artillery. The stamps will escalate the arrival of the baton to the island internationally.’