Queen’s new representative in Midlothian

Richard Callander has balanced a career as a chartered surveyor, farmer and a member of the Territorial Army. He is a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and worked in private practice in Edinburgh before being appointed as Head Factor for the National Trust for Scotland.

He was the secretary of The Queen’s Body Guard for Scotland, Royal Company of Archers (2007-19) where he was responsible for the administration of 590 members and the organisation of ceremonial events during Royal visits to Scotland.

During 40 years in the Territorial Army he was the project director for the establishment of the Armed Forces Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, for which he was awarded an OBE. Richard also has a mixed arable and stock farm in Midlothian, committed to deliver a sustainable farming future using innovation and collaboration with others to integrate people, science, technology, genetics and natural resources.

Speaking about this appointment by the Queen as Lord-Lieutenant for Midlothian, Richard said: “I feel very honoured to have been appointed to represent the Queen as Lord-Lieutenant for Midlothian in succession to Sir Robert Clerk.

“He has done a magnificent job to promote the county during his term of office. He will be a hard act to follow but I look forward to the challenge and to become more involved in the county.

“We are living in difficult times with the current restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, it is heartening to hear of the many stories of support by Midlothian Council’s councillors and staff, local communities and individuals, to help those in need, and I hope that this magnificent community spirit will endure long after the pandemic has passed into history.”

Midlothian Provost, Councillor Peter Smaill (Con) added: “I extend congratulations on behalf of the council.”

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