Dedication, dignity and duty – the mark of a Lord-Lieutenant
‘He has carried out his role with the utmost dignity and dedication to duty.’
These were the words of praise for Lieutenancy colleagues as Patrick Stewart embarked on his final week in the role of Lord-Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute.
Due to retire on Saturday, July 25, Mr Stewart has served the Lieutenancy of Argyll and Bute since his first appointment as a Depute Lieutenant in 1987 and then in the role of Vice Lieutenant in 2002. He was appointed LordLieutenant of Argyll and Bute by Her Majesty The Queen in 2011.
During that time he has been involved in numerous Royal visits to the area and marking special occasions in Argyll and Bute – including The Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilees in 2002 and 2012 respectively, and Her 90th Birthday Celebrations in 2016.
On behalf of Her Majesty, he has overseen numerous awards presentations to people and organisations across Argyll and Bute who have made outstanding contributions to community life – including the Oban Times’ David Buchanan - an area of Lieutenancy work in which Patrick has been particularly active.
He has also played a part in other, perhaps more personal celebrations. A duty in which he has taken great pleasure is marking the special occasions of local people, such as 100th and 105th birthdays, and Diamond and Platinum Wedding anniversaries, making presentations on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen. A matter of considerable personal pleasure was his presentation of a 105th birthday card to his mother, Mrs Ailsa Stewart who, like Patrick, still lives in Campbeltown.
A key achievement of Patrick’s tenure was the co-ordination of Argyll and Bute’s First World War Centenary Commemorations. This already-significant task brought with it additional gravitas and importance when it became apparent that the 2018 centenary commemorations in Islay would attract very considerable international attention.
While each of the centenary events, in Oban, Helensburgh and Dunoon were successfully realised, the 2018 commemoration provided the greatest test. This brought together HRH The Princess Royal with numerous international and national politicians, dignitaries, local residents and overseas visitors – plus a fleet of international warships – for a series of events on Islay to mark the loss of the SS Tuscania and the HMS Otranto. With Patrick at the helm, employing his characteristic commitment and attention to detail, this put Argyll and Bute on the international stage, as well providing a very fitting and moving memorial for the lost, saved and the rescuers.
A particular personal highlight was his appointment as a Companion of the Royal Victorian Order in the 2020 Queen’s New Year Honours. While perhaps no surprise to others given his many years of service, Patrick was humbled and delighted at the award, which is made at the personal behest of Her Majesty The Queen to mark dedicated service to the monarchy.