An Army reserve training centre in Moray is set to re-invent itself into a focal point for recruitment as well as home for a reserve detachment of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
‘C’ Company, 51st Highland, 7th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland are establishing a permanent presence at the Edgar Road centre in Elgin and are set to hold a number of events this month – including an open day on October 20 and a training exercise that makes use of the Binhill Training area.
Edgar Road will also have a weekly visit from a Careers Advisor able to advise anyone interested in a career as a Regular or Reservist soldier as to the challenging and rewarding Army roles available.
The Careers Advisor will be at the centre every Tuesday from 9am until 4pm.
Brigadier Hugh Monro CBE, who has recently been appointed as the new Honorary Colonel of 51st Highland Battalion, was in Elgin on Tuesday to inspect the reserve centre, accompanied by Councillor Chris Tuke.
They met Reservist soldiers from ‘C’ Company as well as some of their Regular colleagues from The Highlanders, 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland.
Brigadier Monro said: “Any young person who enjoys keeping themselves fit, likes to travel and wants to be part of an organisation that espouses teamwork, camaraderie and the values of respect and mutual trust should consider the opportunities that exist throughout the Army and the Army Reserve.
“The 51st Highland Battalion and, indeed, the Regulars of The Highlanders, offer recruits the chance to learn additional skills.
“Learn to drive, get a HGV licence, get a First Aid at Work qualification, Health and Safety courses, Personal Education or Adventure Training qualifications – the possibilities are endless.”
Councillor Tuke, who served in the Royal Air Force, added: “Service in the Regular Forces obviously provides full-time employment along with all the benefits and the opportunity to travel.
“Joining the Reserves can provide experiences and many of the ‘soft skills’ that would not be available in the civilian world.
“The characteristics of team-work, self–discipline and self-reliance are of great value for both the individuals and their employers.”