The Duke of Kent is stepping back as Colonel of the Scots Guards in his 50th year in the role.

The Duke, now 88, will be replaced by the Duke of Edinburgh.

The changeover happens on April 14th 2024 when the Duke of Kent attends annual Black Sunday events in London for the regiment. Black Sunday is The Scots Guards annual day of remembrance.

The Duke will attend a Service of Remembrance at the Guards Chapel at Wellington Barracks.

Then, after half a century as Colonel, he will take the salute for the final time at a parade of the Scots Guards.

The Scots Guards are one of five Regiments of Foot Guards within the British Army’s Household Division. They have played important roles at some of the biggest military battles in British history including the Battle of Waterloo.

As he prepared to step aside, the Duke of Kent said ”Serving as Colonel of the Scots Guards since 1974, the longest anyone has spent in this role, has been a true honour and one which will forever fill me with great joy. Through those years, I have seen the work of the Scots Guards during peacetime and war and witnessed their bravery, selfless courage and devotion to duty.

“To my fellow Scots Guardsmen, I am immensely proud to have served you all. I am delighted that His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh will continue to champion all that you do and work towards preserving your great legacy.”

The incoming Colonel, the Duke of Edinburgh, said ”The Duke of Kent has been an extraordinary Colonel of the Scots Guards. Quite apart from his depth of knowledge and keen understanding of the Regiment and all those who serve, past and present, he has been a tireless and passionate advocate.

“It is a distinct honour to be asked and entrusted by His Majesty to serve as the next Colonel. However, I accept with a degree of trepidation as I will undoubtedly be measured against the formidable record and reputation of my predecessor. I can only promise to do my best.”

Tributes to the Duke of Kent also came from the Regimental Lieutenant Colonel of the Scots Guards, Colonel JDK Leask who said ”The Duke of Kent has been at the helm of the Scots Guards for fifty years. He is the only Colonel most of us have known. He has been a constant in a rapidly changing world. His loyalty to the Regiment and selfless commitment to the country has been an example to us all.”