The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Brigadier Sir Mel Jameson in line for freedom of Perth city honour.
HONOUR: Senior officer who has strengthened links between city and royal family poised for recognition
A senior British Army officer who has spent years strengthening links between Perth and the royal family could be granted the freedom of the city.
Brigadier Sir Melville Jameson is due to retire from his post as Lord Lieutenant of Perth and Kinross after nearly 14 years.
Council bosses want to show their gratitude for his “remarkable contribution” and “unwavering support” by awarding him one of the area’s highest honours, the prestigious Freedom of the City of Perth.
If approved, Sir Melville will follow in the footsteps of former prime minister Sir Winston Churchill, writer John Buchan and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.
A ceremony is being planned for August, as part of the annual City of Perth Salute procession which Sir Melville was instrumental in setting up.
Made a Knight Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (KCVO) in the Queen’s birthday honours last year, he will retire on July 17.
In a report to councillors, democratic services manager Christina Flynn said: “During his tenure, the Lord Lieutenant has fully embraced the role of ambassador for Perth and Kinross at every opportunity.
“He has been instrumental in attracting a number of high-profile events and securing royal visits to the area.
“The economic impact that can result from a royal visit, major civic event or presentation of awards and medals should not be underestimated.
“His professional reputation, connections with people all around the world, and his passion and enthusiasm to promote the area have provided the perfect platform for him to carry out his role as Lord Lieutenant.”
Mr Jameson was commissioned into the Royal Scots Greys in 1964 and went on to command the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards in the late 1980s.
He was promoted to colonel in 1990, then brigadier four years later as he commanded the 51st Highland Brigade.
He also served as chief executive of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for nearly a decade.
Many Tattoo performers from all over the globe take part in the now-yearly City of Perth Salute.
Sir Melville also championed Perth’s bid for city status, as well as helped establish the first International Youth Band Festival and the City of Perth classic car parade which was attended by Prince Michael of Kent.
He is also a strong supporter of the council’s bid to bring the Stone of Destiny to Perth.
Councillors will be asked to grant Mr Jameson Freedom of the City at a meeting tomorrow.
“He has been instrumental in attracting a number of high-profile events and securing royal visits to the area. CHRISTINA FLYNN