RENOWNED in Cupar for his piping prowess, Tam Lorimer's greatest wish was for his treasured bagpipes to be played and enjoyed long after his death.
That wish was granted this week, when they were passed on to his old regiment in the British Army, the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
Then known as the Royal Scots Greys, Tam served as a Pipe Corporal in the regiment between 1959 and 1965, and contin
ued to be known for his musical skill until his death, from motor neurone disease, in January of this year.
Delivery of the pipes, which now sport a shield displaying Tam's name, rank and number, was timed to coincide with this month's Waterloo anniversary events.
The most celebrated episode in the Greys' history came at the famous battle, when their cavalry charge scythed through French infantry lines, prompting Napoleon to curse "those terrible grey horses."
Among the highlights of Tam's own career were being named the best Highland dancer in the British Army, playing at the Duke of Kent's wedding and touring his pipes throughout America and the Far East.
He was also a founding member of the Cupar Piping Society and regularly played the lament at the Royal British Legion's remembrance service - a duty that has since been taken up by close friend John Rankin.
Tam's widow, Pat, said that his military life had been "very important" to him, adding: "Tam was very proud of what he achieved, both with the Greys and with his pipes.
"He continued to play for as long as he was able, and would have been delighted for his bagpipes to be adopted by a promising member of the regiment band - they'll certainly be highly prized."
The Pipes and Drums of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards have become a commercial success recently, with their second album, 'Spirit of the Glen: Journey', being named Album of the Year at last month's Classical Brit Awards.
Many readers will also remember their version of 'Amazing Grace', which topped the UK charts in 1972.
