Tri-Service

Lance Corporal Derby (2013-2015): A Dedication

The British military lives by its traditions and precedents, and the tragic early death of one of its prized mascots marks a sombre day for the Mercian Regiment.

"It is with sadness, we have to report the death of our Regimental Mascot, Lance Corporal Derby XXX. He died on Friday 27 November."

"As the official mascot of The Mercian Regiment, Derby attended a number of regimental occasions, including parades, charity fundraisers and recruiting events."

More From Forces TV: The British Army's Menagerie of Mascots

Lance Corporal Derby was officially classed as a soldier and therefore issued with an ID Card and Army Number. He also drew a wage for his rations.

Lance Corporal Derby was born and raised at Chatsworth Estate in January 2013, and then enlisted into the Mercian Regiment a year later after the Duke of Devonshire hand picked him.

He was presented to the regiment in January 2014, and was promoted for good behaviour, eventually achieving the rank of Lance Corporal.

The Mercian Regiment continued their dedication to Lance Corporal Derby:

"He was well known for leading out the football teams at Derby County FC, and also reached fame when switching on the Christmas lights in Ashbourne last year."

"Derby became our mascot in January 2013, and was promoted to Lance Corporal on the 1st September 2015 for excellent behaviour."

The Swaledale ram was the latest to be enlisted into the Mercian regiment, and continued a long tradition dating back to 1858. Speaking after Private Derby's recent promotion to Lance Corporal, Lieutenant Colonel Ben Wilde, Commanding Officer of 2 Mercian remarked:

"This is the latest in a long line of ‘Derbys’ to have served as our Regimental mascot, and not all of them are as well behaved as our newest was today - he is well deserving of his promotion."

The first Private Derby was acquired in April 1858 by the 95th (Derbyshire) Regiment of Foot at the Siege and capture of Kotah during the Indian Mutiny Campaign of 1857-1858.

Since that time there has followed a succession of fine rams, each of which has inherited the official title of Private Derby followed by his successive number.