Strathaven Probus Club heard an interesting talk from the former Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire - Gilbert Cox - at the club’s most recent meeting.

President Graham Findlay welcomed a deputation of 10 members of the Larkhall Probus Club who were introduced by their President John McPhee. After conducting routine business he then introduced the guest speaker - former Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire - Gilbert Cox.

Gilbert described his time as the Queen's representative in Lanarkshire from the time he was appointed in 2000 to his recent retiral. His anecdotes covered some of the many duties of the Lord Lieutenant and his deputies, to some of the events, including 51 Royal Visits to the Countyover which he presided. He described how he "put himself about" in order to show off the diversity of Lanarkshire life, industrial, business & cultural.

The highlight of his term of office, he considered, was the hosting by the County of the International Children's Games in August 2011 when over 1000 athletes from 33 different countries participated. His tales of personal contact with members of the Royal family included an account of the visit of the Princess Royal to open the Cameronians Museum and the security measures taken when news came through of the twin towers events in New York during her visit.

Other anecdotes, which greatly amused his audience involved a lost briefcase and an "Irish Uniform". His talk left the audience with the impression of a "right down to earth wee man" who had worked very hard for Lanarkshire over a long numbers of years.
After the tea interval Gilbert answered questions covering a wide range of topics relevant to the Lieutenancy, its origins, incumbents and funding.

The vote of thanks was accorded by a Past-President of the Club who also holds office as a Senior Depute Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire - David Reeks  - who thanked Gilbert for his illuminating & entertaining talk.
The photograph shows(L to R), Senior Depute Lord Lieutenant  David Reeks, President of the Larkhall Club, John McPhee, Former Lord Lieutenant Gilbert Cox and Graham Findlay, President of the Strathaven Club.