McKays Kilts and Medals
George McKay started in the Scots Guards as a drummer in the Pipe Band. The Scots Guards are one of the five Guards regiments that make up the Household Division of the British Army. These regiments, in addition to normal duties, are also the ones involved in ceremonial occasions related to the Royal Family. Because of the importance in getting these events, such as the State Opening of Parliament, and Ceremonial parades, absolutely correct in front of the Royals, the regiments have their own tradesmen, specialists and are self sufficient rather than using outside firms. So, in addition to his role in the infantry, George later became a tailor in the regiment, responsible for the maintenance and upgrade of uniforms due to promotions. As the regiment is the Scots Guards, an important part of the Pipers ceremonial uniforms are kilts. Tailors in the regiment also look after the medals and ribbons that have been awarded to their colleagues. After twenty six years in the army, George retired at the top of his trade, as Senior Master Tailor Household Division. In his time as a regimental tailor he achieved many distinctions and awards.
Now George has set up business in Consett, making and repairing kilts, putting ribbons on medals both old and new, and adding rank insignia to uniforms of newly promoted Armed Service personnel. When our photographer was there he had just received a parcel of WWI medals that need new ribbons attached. Not surprisingly, all the colours of the ribbons have great significance and can be read by an experienced eye that will know exactly where that member of the armed forces has served. It is also vital for Armed Forces veterans, and their families, to have their medals in the best possible condition as a matter of personal pride. Because of his experience with these medals over many years, George knows the history of all of them and exactly why they have been awarded.
George still gets a lot of work especially from the military. He had just received a very large swathe of cloth that was to be made into kilts for Pipers of G Company Scots Guards. And, judging by the packets of medals and ribbons ready for dispatch, many people are using his services.
More information can be found at George's website https://www.mckayskilts.com/
George still gets a lot of work especially from the military. He had just received a very large swathe of cloth that was to be made into kilts for Pipers of G Company Scots Guards. And, judging by the packets of medals and ribbons ready for dispatch, many people are using his services.
More information can be found at George's website https://www.mckayskilts.com/