A night like no other at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The evening started at the home of the Royal Air Force in Scotland, a magnificent Georgian house on Learmonth Terrace, reports Immediate Past Master Bettine Evans. It’s a magnificent three-storey Georgian house complete with the most wonderful carvings, imposing staircase, spacious rooms and raised ceilings.

We arrived at 7pm as invited and a huge amount of people were there. Our initial host was the salute taker, Paul Lloyd and his wife Jane who had been my personal guests at the Aerospace Industry Dinner last year, which is why we were invited. We were made to feel incredibly welcome and presented as VIP guests, which was flattering as there were some high ranking officials with lots of gold braid on display.

Tony and I were introduced to everyone, including Air Commodore Bill Gibson MBE ADC MA RAFR, Air Officer for Scotland and his wife Dianne were pleased to meet us. We had a tour of the house, followed by a delightful drinks reception and supper, celebrating wonderful Scottish food.

We were then transported by smart buses to the majestic Castle esplanade for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, where we enjoyed the best seats in the house behind the salute-taker.

With the Royal Navy as lead service, the Show paid homage to the seafarers that brave the oceans bringing people and cultures together.

A wonderful show followed, where more than 800 international performers came from far and wide to perform vibrant dance, music, visual artistry and so much more. These included a wide variety of marching bands in different kilts and regimental dress, many pipes and drums, and troupes of colourful international and Highland dancers, all in perfect time as the castle backdrop was transformed by an incredible light show.

Afterwards, we repaired to a reception in the private bar at the Castle where we sampled quite the best single malt I have ever tasted – and I have had many! It was probably the most entertaining evening we have ever enjoyed – a truly lovely evening.