Residents at Scotland’s largest Veterans charity have celebrated in style as they came together to mark the coronation of HRH King Charles III.
Veterans, staff, volunteers and families across Erskine’s network of care homes in Renfrewshire and Edinburgh threw themselves into the celebrations, as they marked the historic moment, with events spanning the entire weekend.
The charity’s three care homes, as well as the Erskine Reid Macewen Activities Centre at Erskine’s base in Bishopton, were decked out in red, white and blue – in addition to a magnificent marquee filled with bunting and balloons for the regal themed celebrations.
Morning tea and cakes were served while the Veterans watched the proceedings on Saturday morning. This was followed by a Coronation buffet served during the various parties. And to cap it all residents enjoyed a mouth-watering Erskine Coronation dinner on Sunday evening.
The celebrations were made possible thanks to the kindness and generosity of the Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal (RSEA) and ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. Thanks also go to the 6 Troop Scots Dragoon Guards – Army Cadets for their time and invaluable assistance over the weekend.
RSEA spokesman Tom Clark said: “The Rangers Supporters Erskine Appeal is honoured to donate to Erskine in celebration of the King’s coronation. This money will go a long way towards the veterans marking the occasion in style, and we are delighted to lend our support once again to such a worthy charity.
“As an organisation, we have seen first-hand the fine work Erskine carry out to provide care and comfort to these who have served for our country and sacrificed so much for every one of us. This donation is a small token of our gratitude for their service and our way of giving back to those who have given so much. We hope every veteran has a fantastic day celebrating.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Peter Monteith, Chief Operating Officer ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, said: “We treasure our close relationship with Erskine and the veteran care home community, and are delighted to help residents mark the Coronation in style. It is a time for great celebration and excitement, and it’s lovely to share this with the Erskine family.”
Chief Executive of Erskine Veterans Charity, Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE said: “This weekend has been one of making memories, which, I may say the Erskine family has done commendably.
“We are extremely lucky to have been honoured, over the years, with visits from King Charles III and we would like to take this opportunity to extend our warmest congratulations on his ascension to the throne from all at Erskine.
“We would also like to thank the RSEA and ABF The Soldiers’ Charity for their extremely generous donations which have gone a long way to making our Coronation celebrations so special.”
