UK's First Female Bomb Disposal Officer Continues To Make History

The UK’s first female bomb disposal officer is making history, as the only female Marshal to be appointed at the University of Cambridge in its 809-year-history.

Wielding the Marshal's mace at the institution's congregation, Lucy Lewis welcomed her first working day under the new role.

She joined the Army in 1989 as a Royal Engineer and became the first woman to operate as a bomb disposal officer.

“I was so excited, really thrilled about it - I didn’t even know it was an option. I immediately rushed out to phone my mother - and she said oh goodness I don’t have to worry about you going to Northern Ireland, and...

"...I said no I’m going to be a bomb disposal officer, so excited - and she was silent…not a word"

When asked how the job was similar to the military she replied: "In some ways a lot, there’s a great deal of standing about, waiting for things to happen, then lots of action when it does happen.

"There’s a fair amount of getting cold and wet, dealing with the public is great, because this is a very happy occasion for people so everyone's on the whole very cheerful, there are a few people who’re stressed about being late, but on the whole it’s a very happy occasion for people, so very similar to a passing out parade - where everyone’s very proud of the achievement of their children."

Following her role as a bomb disposal officer, Lucy transferred to the Royal Military where she served for eight years.

Looking ahead at what her next achievement could be, she said: "I dread to think what the next one’s going to be - I think it’s just about making the best out of what life throws at you."