Duke of Buccleuch's 'legacy of championing community spirit... will continue to inspire for years to come'
The tribute comes as he bows out as Lord Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale...
Last updated 12th Oct 2025
The Duke of Buccleuch is praising the "remarkable spirit and dedication" of communities across the Scottish Borders, especially during the Covid pandemic, as he steps down as Lord-Lieutenant for Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale, after nine years in the role.
The 71-year-old, who is being succeeded by former Scotland rugby star John Jeffrey as the monarch's representative in the county, has regularly hosted events to celebrate volunteers’ contributions and has publicly acknowledged the vital role they play in the region's well-being.
Whilst he has retired from the role as Lord Lieutenant, Richard Scott remains Captain-General of the Royal Company of Archers and continues to hold many other high-profile appointments.
At a special ceremony at the Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor centre in Galashiels to celebrate his service, the Duke said: “It has been an immense honour to serve the Borders community as Lord-Lieutenant and a privilege to witness the remarkable spirit and dedication of our communities, especially through the challenges of the Covid years.
“As I step aside, I am deeply grateful for the support and camaraderie we have shared.
“I am truly pleased to see John Jeffrey take on the role of Lord-Lieutenant. I am confident that he will serve with distinction as His Majesty’s representative and continue to uphold the values and traditions that make our region so exceptional.”
The Duke, who has a distinguished career in public life and philanthropy, was appointed to the role of Lord-Lieutenant in 2016, succeeding Captain The Honourable Gerald Maitland-Carew CVO.
He has enjoyed significant involvement in Scottish civic life, serving and having served on many boards, including as President of the National Trust for Scotland, Trustee of the Royal Collection Trust, Patron of the Abbotsford Trust, sponsor of the Walter Scott Prize, presented annually at the Borders Book Festival in Melrose, to mention just a few.
Convenor of Scottish Borders Council, Councillor Watson McAteer said: “On behalf of the Scottish Borders Council and our communities, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to The Duke of Buccleuch for his years of dedicated service as Lord-Lieutenant.
“Throughout his tenure, the Duke of Buccleuch has championed volunteering, regularly celebrating the kindness and dedication of volunteers and recognising their vital role in strengthening communities across the Borders.
"His legacy of championing community spirit and celebrating the contributions of others will continue to inspire for years to come.
“His leadership, has left a lasting legacy of commitment and community spirit across Roxburgh, Ettrick and Lauderdale.”
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