The Jocks are here: Bagpipes at Alexander Barracks signal 4 Scots' arrival in Cyprus

A new battalion has taken over duties in Cyprus with a formal handover ceremony marking the change.

4th Battalion the Royal Regiment of Scotland raised the regimental flag at Alexander Barracks, replacing 1 Rifles.

Its new role as the Resident Infantry Battalion in Dhekelia means periods of high readiness on regional standby.

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Living in Cyprus and accustomed to the Mediterranean temperatures, 4 Scots can be ready to react in the Middle East, North Africa and the wider region.

Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Muir, 4 Scots' Commanding Officer, said: "We're an acclimatised infantry battalion in a part of the world that regularly hits the news for various conflicts and crises.

"We're here ready to stand by and to support defence as and when required."

Leaving Catterick in North Yorkshire, the battalion could be deployed beyond Cyprus in peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, alongside operations.

"It's an exciting time with lots of new challenges," added Lt Col Muir.

Nearly 500 Highlanders and their families will make Dhekelia their home for the next two years.

Alongside personal possessions and the battalion's belongings, the infanteers of 4 Scots bring the traditional sound of the Highlands with them.

As the regimental flag was raised, the regimental march Cabar Feidh bellowed throughout the barracks.

Battalion piper Corporal Alistair Park said: "Here in Cyprus it's quite hard because it's hot. It makes the pitch a lot sharper and more difficult to tune the pipes."

But he added: "It's good to mark our footprint on the island now the Jocks are here. Everyone knows by the sound of the bagpipes we're here."

British Forces Cyprus maintains two Resident Infantry Battalions on the island, living in UK territory.

4 Scots is in the Eastern Sovereign Base Area, while 1st Battalion the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment is in the Western SBA at Episkopi Garrison.

In lowering its flag to Sounding Retreat played on a bugle and marching from the parade square, 1 Rifles formally ends its deployment in Cyprus.

The battalion returns to Beachley Barracks in Chepstow, joining the 7th Light Mechanised Brigade Combat Team.