Ex-Mercian regimental mascot Corporal Derby XXXII dies aged eight after proud career

The British Army’s Mercian Regiment has announced the death of one of its former mascots – the famous Swaledale Ram Corporal Derby XXXII.

The eight-year-old ram had retired from duty in July 2024 having spent six-and-a-half years as regimental mascot for the Mercians.

During his life, Derby XXXII became the first regimental mascot to reach the rank of corporal and met the future King Charles III in 2022.

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The Mercian Regiment announced his passing in a statement on social media saying: "It is with great sadness that we must announce the death of our previous regimental mascot, Corporal Derby XXXII, at the age of eight.

"Corporal Derby retired from duty during this summer following around six-and-a-half years of service to the Mercian Regiment, becoming the very first regimental mascot in his lineage to be promoted to full corporal.

"Derby descends from a long line of Swaledale Rams, a tradition which started back in 1858 during the Indian Mutiny, and which are now presented to the regiment by the Duke of Devonshire."

The concept of having a mascot named Derby originated in 1858 when a fighting ram was discovered by Private Sullivan of No 1 Company in Kohtah, central India.

The ram, named Private Derby, marched nearly 3,000 miles with the 95th Foot throughout Central India and was present at six actions during the remainder of the Indian Revolt.

The act became a tradition within the regiment, which later became the Mercian Regiment.

The Mercian Regiment said: "He began his service to the regiment when he was officially selected by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire just before Christmas of 2017.

"In 2022, he was promoted to lance corporal following a visit from the then Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, now His Majesty The King, to the 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment.

"He was promoted again two years later in 2024 at the Crich Memorial Tower to mark the occasion of his retirement from duty.

"He spent his remaining months at the Chatsworth Estate petting farm with his companion Notts II."