It was an honour and a privilege to welcome His Excellency Lieutenant General Sir John Lorimer to Cronk y Berry today. The whole school gathered in the hall for an extra special assembly. We sat and listened to a fascinating insight into his role here on the Isle of Man. He also took us through his previous roles in the Parachute Regiment of the British Army, as well as his additional roles such as being Chief of Joint Operation for all of the UK Armed Forces global operations.
The Sir John helped us to understand what his role as Lieutenant Governor involves. He explained it in 3 ways: Ceremonial, Community and Constitutional. This involves presiding over Tynwald, granting royal warrants and helping the Isle of Man out.
Sir John described a typical day like today which saw him visit our school, then go to visit the Chief Constable, walking the new Port St. Mary route before hosting a dinner party with the Chief Minister tonight.
When saying what the Isle of Man should be proud of, he encourage us to be proud of our Culture, Sports and the Arts. Sir John was very keen that we all attempt to walk the Raad ny Foillan as he loves the path.
The children enjoyed learning about his ceremonial uniform - including the special swan feathers that adorn his hat!
Years 5 and 6 then stayed for an extra Q&A session - which the most interesting question receiving a medal! So the boys and girls excitedly asked their questions and waited for the winning one! There were questions about the letters after his name, who works with him at Government House, which medal he is most proud of and who his family is. The winning question from Lily in 5P was: Apart from the Queen, who is the most famous person you've met? We were eager to know, and Sir John listed heads of state including a previous President of the United States of America!
His Excellency extended an invite to a class to pop down to Government House especially as we are nearly neighbours to his house!
What a truly wonderful opportunity to meet The Lieutenant Governor - not left handed as he sometime gets called!