Man with keys to the Tower... Brummie’s new role as Yeoman Gaoler
BRUMMIE Peter McGowran has an address most of us would only dream of: The Tower of London.
What’s more, the 59-year-old’s a gaoler at the fortress where all manner of historic figures got the chop.
Like Anne Boleyn, for instance, beheaded on Tower Green.
The second wife of Henry VIII met her maker on May 19, 1536.
But that doesn’t worry Peter, eldest of eight children, from Moseley.
“Living and working at the Tower of London is something truly special,” he says.
The former RAF Regiment veteran took over the ancient role of Yeoman Gaoler this month.
Historically, the position meant guarding the high-profile prisoners, but no one has been locked in the Tower since 1952.
Mind you, the pretty notorious.
Ronnie and Reggie Kray spent two nights in The Tower for failing to report for National Service.
Now, the job entails managing the 35 Beefeaters – officially known as Yeoman Warders – who live at the tourist attraction with their families.
“While I was at Moseley Secondary School, I played a Yeoman Warder in a Gilbert and Sullivan opera,” says Peter.
“Little did I realise that one day I would become one!” last inmates were
Peter enrolled in the Royal Air Force Regiment at the age of 17, he has been married for almost 40 years to wife Debbie and the couple have three children and five granddaughters.
He became a Beefeater eight years ago and was promoted to Yeoman Serjeant in 2013.
Beefeaters are descended from the ancient band of warders who guarded the gates and royal prisoners early in the Tower’s history.
Modern Yeoman Warders are still Extraordinary Members of the Queen’s Bodyguard.
To qualify for the applicants must have served at least 22 years in the armed forces, hold the long service and good conduct medal, and have reached the level of warrant officer.
Peter adds: “It’s every Yeoman Warder’s ambition is to one day carry the ceremonial Axe of the Gaoler.
“So to be chosen for this role after eight years at the Tower is an honour and a privilege.” role,