A Wishaw man has been awarded a position as an Officer of Arms to the Queen.
Colin Russell has been given the special role due to his lifetime passion and commitment to the study of heraldry.
The 57-year-old podiatrist at Carluke Health Centre, as well as a church elder at Wishaw Old Parish.
Heraldry is the study and history of armorial bearings and coats of arms and Colin’s role will see him carry out many ceremonial duties in Scotland, such as royal occasions and those in connection with Scottish public life.
Colin told Lanarkshire Live : “I have had an interest in heraldry since I was a young boy at Wishaw Old Parish Church.
“There was a coat of arms in the church and I wanted to find out what it meant and who it belonged to.
“I did research and found it belonged to Lord Belhaven of Wishaw.
“Since then I have had a keen interest in heraldry and joined the Heraldry Society of Scotland.
“I was a committee member there for two terms.”
As Officer of Arms to the Queen, Colin can also give advice and act as a professional consultant in the realms of heraldry.
This means if someone is looking to trace their own arms, Colin will be able to consult and help them.
In this role, Colin will be expected to attend and work at events in which the Queen is present.
This would include things such as the opening of the Scottish Parliament, the opening of the General Assembly, and attending the National War Memorial in Edinburgh.
Colin added: “I never thought an opportunity like this would come up for me.
“The Lord Lyon King of Arms called me at the start of the year and explained how he felt I should be given the role.
“ It is a real honour and I am very thankful for the chance.”
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