The Queens inspects Cruachan outside Balmoral

The Royal Regiment of Scotland’s mascot, Lance Corporal Cruachan 4th, can now add another stripe to his ceremonial uniform after being promoted to Corporal.

Cruachan, aged nine, is based at Edinburgh’s Redford Barracks and has been the official mascot of the regiment since his current stablemate and companion, Cruachan 3rd, retired in September 2012 after more than 20 years in the role.

His handler, Pony Major Mark Wilkinson, has been with him since then and has trained him in the drill and etiquette skills required for his high-profile ceremonial role.

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Since taking on the job, Cruachan and Major Wilkinson have led countless parades and attended hundreds of regimental events all over the world, including many in the presence of the Queen and other members of the Royal Family.

This summer, Cruachan made headlines all over the world when he was caught on camera attempting to eat the Queen’s posy of flowers at an official visit to Stirling Castle.