Halesowen born and bred man to play role in Queen's funeral

Philip Tibbetts, who is Scotland's official flag expert and takes part in ceremonial duties, has already been front and centre as historic scenes played out in Scotland after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

He has been on duty at Balmoral and was at the front of St Giles Cathedral at the historic moment when the Queen's coffin arrived.

PA (Image: PA)

He led the procession as the coffin was carried inside to lie in state followed by King Charles III.

On Monday he will be honoured to play a key part in the funeral procession through the streets of London.

The 37-year-old, who is married and has one daughter aged five, said: "It's such a historic and rare event - there are officers of arms who have never done this in their entire careers.

"I'm very humbled to have this opportunity - it gets the hairs on the back of your neck standing up.

"It's a moment in history and I hope I can help give the Queen the best send-off and do my friends and family proud.

"Ceremonial events are always daunting and when you're in the loudest uniform if you mess up there's no hiding it!"

In 2018 Philip was recognised as Scotland's official flags expert with his appointment as the first ever Honorary Vexillilologist at the Lyon Court.

He was also made one of Scotland's Officers of Arms - the first March Pursuivant for nearly a century.

Philip Tibbetts (Image: Philip Tibbetts)

Philip grew up in Halesowen and attended Huntingtree Primary and Earls High and then King Edward VI College in Stourbridge.

He now lives in Lockerbie but his parents still live in the town.

He was also involved in the Proclamations of King Charles III in Edinburgh in his fetching red uniform.