Open Letter from Moray Council Leader and Civic Leader marking the Lord Lieutenant's end of tenure

Open Letter from Moray Council Leader and Civic Leader marking the Lord Lieutenant's end of tenure

Dear Residents of Moray,

Wednesday 7 May 2025 marks the end of Major General Seymour Monro's tenure as Lord Lieutenant of Moray and we think it’s fitting to take this opportunity to reflect on his remarkable contributions to our community.

Major General Monro CBE LVO has led a life of service, beginning with his distinguished military career in the Queen’s Own Highlanders, where he commanded the first battalion in Northern Ireland and the First Gulf War, and culminating in his role as deputy commander of NATO Rapid Deployable Corps. His dedication to defending our country and protecting our democracy is commendable.

However, we wish to focus on what Seymour has achieved for Moray during his relatively short tenure as Lord Lieutenant. Taking over from Lieutenant Colonel Grenville Johnston, Seymour stepped into his role at a time of unprecedented change due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

In the past five years, Seymour has accomplished incredible feats for Moray. He worked closely with Andrew Simpson, Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire, to establish the Moray Emergency Relief Fund. This fund provided crucial financial relief to those in our community suffering from severe hardship, illness, or poverty as a result of the pandemic. Described as the safety net of last resort, it supported those who could not be sufficiently helped by the UK and Scottish governments or the council. With contributions from 200 donors, the fund distributed over £285,000 and benefitted 620 families and individuals. This initiative has since evolved into the Moray Community Foundation, continuing to deliver support during the cost-of-living crisis.

Seymour also provided invaluable support to the council and administration during the pandemic, working closely with Roddy Burns, the previous Chief Executive. His regular calls and guidance were crucial during a time when decisions had to be made swiftly, often with unknown consequences.

During his tenure, Seymour led Moray through significant national events, including the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the subsequent proclamation and Coronation duties following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. While recognising that not everyone supports the monarchy, these events marked a period of profound change for our country after a 70-year reign. Seymour’s passionate reintroduction and celebration of the Moray Badge Platinum Jubilee encouraged young people to participate in and enjoy outdoor activities and develop their own strengths, having a positive impact on mental health and well-being as well as on learning in the classroom.

Seymour has championed Moray in every aspect of his role, supporting individuals and youth and community groups. He has also been instrumental in significant events, including The Boys’ Brigade Baton relay celebrating its 140-year anniversary, and has encouraged the inclusion of local pipe bands in a tuition scheme in our schools. Additionally, he facilitated the creation of the Moray Flag, a symbol of our community now flown locally and on HMS Spey in Southeast Asia.

We also appreciate his annual organisation of commemoration events for remembrance, his support for our local armed forces at Kinloss Barracks and RAF Lossiemouth, and his involvement in citizenship ceremonies.

Seymour’s tenure as Lord Lieutenant has been marked by dedication, compassion, and unwavering support for Moray. As we bid farewell to his leadership, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for his service and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

Sincerely,

Cllr Kathleen Robertson, Leader of Moray Council
Cllr John Cowe, Civic Leader of Moray Council

Karen Greaves BEM, Chief Executive Moray Council