By Dave Lord

MORALE AMONG soldiers of The Black Watch still serving in troubled Iraq hit an all-time low following news of swingeing defence cuts, the mother of a Perth soldier revealed yesterday.

Elizabeth Wedgwood, whose 22-year-old son Ruaridh is in Basra, threw her weight behind the Courier campaign to save the famous regiment.

She said her son was initially devastated when told of forthcoming changes to the army’s structure north of the border—but was now more determined than ever to serve his country with pride and courage.

One of Scotland’s regiments looks sure to be disbanded while the other five will be amalgamated to form one or two “super regiments.”

However, neither option appeals to Mrs Wedgwood.

“My son is currently out in Iraq and was told about the cuts at a big meeting of all the soldiers,” she told The Courier.

“He was absolutely devastated and told me that morale was at an all time low.

“Apparently a lot of soldiers said they just wanted to leave then and there, but having thought about it they are determined to stay on and do their bit.

“People like my son are enormously proud of the Red Hackle—they joined The Black Watch and want to be part of The Black Watch, not some so-called ‘super regiment.’ ”

Mrs Wedgwood paid tribute to the professionalism of the regiment, which is based in Perth and recruits throughout Tayside and Fife, and said it was unfair to leave young soldiers unsure about their future.

“All the soldiers out in Iraq are upset about the situation but will get on with the job in hand,” she said.

“Nobody is really sure what will happen and the delay in giving out exact details of the planned changes is unacceptable.”

Mrs Wedgwood urged everyone to get behind the Courier campaign to save The Black Watch.

“It is really good to have a campaign such as this as it will get people thinking,” she said.

“The Black Watch is very important to the area—it provides employment for so many local youngsters and is something everyone can be proud of.”

Perth and Kinross provost Bob Scott, yesterday lent his support to the Courier’s campaign. He called on the Government to clarify its plans and insisted The Black Watch was “revered and renowned” all over the world.

Mr Scott continued, “I feel this review has been presented with a total lack of detail.

“I understand that part of the White Paper states ‘four infantry battalions—three in England and one from Scotland—are to be cut with further amalgamations.’

“To make a statement such as this and not follow it up with any detail is unacceptable,” Mr Scott went on.

“It is unfortunate that it has been made whilst our soldiers are already under pressure, fulfilling current engagements around the world.”

Mr Scott paid tribute to the local regiment, saying its association with Perth was something to be proud of.

“On a local note, I have no hesitation in reaffirming my full support for The Black Watch,” he said.

“The distinguished Scottish regiment of the dark tartan, formed in Perthshire, with a name revered and renowned throughout the world, deserves our backing.

“Perth and Kinross Council has had a long and privileged association with The Black Watch, which was granted the freedom of the city of Perth in 1947.

“I would suggest there are few Perthshire families who have not had some connection with the regiment over the years and I am sure they will join me in giving it our full support,” Mr Scott added.