A prized regimental ram mascot, known as Private Derby, has taken part in a ceremonial Armed Forces event at Derbyshire-based manufacturer Acres Engineering, marking one of his first official public duties.
Private Derby – the official ram mascot of the Mercian Regiment – visited Acres Engineering on 7 April to commemorate the anniversary of the historic Battle of Badajoz. The ceremony featured a traditional red jacket hoisting, honouring the bravery of British soldiers during the Napoleonic Wars.
The visit marked a significant moment for the newly appointed mascot, a Swaledale ram donated from the Duke of Derbyshire’s flock, following the death of the previous Private Derby in March.
Armed Forces Covenant signing in Derbyshire
Acres Engineering, an Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award holder, hosted the event as part of its continued commitment to supporting the UK Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists and cadets.
During the ceremony, three additional companies formally signed the Armed Forces Covenant, pledging to become Forces-friendly employers:
- AMS Hayley Nuclear Division
- Clover IT Contracts
- Jeani Accessories
Peter Higgins, Defence Engagements and Partnerships Manager at AMS Hayley Nuclear Division, said:
“It’s really important for Hayley Dexis and the wider group to sign the Armed Forces Covenant. We want to recognise the contribution that serving personnel, veterans and reservists make to the UK, and help reduce barriers that may affect their future opportunities.”
Senior Army officer highlights importance of support
The ceremony was attended by Brigadier Adam Fraser-Hitchen DL, a senior British Army officer with operational experience in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan.
Speaking at the event, he emphasised the importance of businesses supporting service leavers and reservists:
“It is vital that a company’s door is open to those leaving the Armed Forces, particularly where civilian working environments may feel unfamiliar.”
He highlighted three key areas of support:
- Employment opportunities for former Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force personnel
- Positive and flexible support for Reservists
- Encouragement for employees to join reserve forces
In his closing remarks, Brigadier Fraser-Hitchen added:
“On days like today, we should reflect on the service and sacrifice of soldiers, sailors, aviators and civilians who have protected the safety and freedom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.”
Battle of Badajoz commemorated with historic tradition
A key moment in the ceremony was the raising of a red jacket on a flagpole, a long-standing military tradition commemorating the actions of Lieutenant James Macpherson during the Battle of Badajoz in 1812.
During the battle, fought under the command of Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, Lt Macpherson scaled heavily defended walls under fire. After being knocked back, he climbed again, reached the fortress, removed the French flag and raised his own red jacket to signal victory in the absence of a Union flag.
Acres Engineering reinforces Armed Forces commitment
Luke Parker, Managing Director of Acres Engineering, said: “We were honoured to welcome Private Derby and Brigadier Adam Fraser-Hitchen, alongside our partner organisations, to mark this important occasion and sign the Armed Forces Covenant.
“We are deeply committed to supporting the Armed Forces community. This includes employing veterans and working closely with local cadets through STEM initiatives. It is a core part of our values as a business.
“At a time of increasing global uncertainty, it is more important than ever that we stand together to support those who defend our nation. Events like this help us remember the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us.”
Acres Engineering, a turnkey manufacturing specialist, has recently expanded into the defence sector, producing safety-critical components to support the UK Armed Forces.
