John Dymoke facts for kids
Lieutenant-Colonel John Lindley Marmion Dymoke MBE (born September 1, 1926 – died March 21, 2015) was a very special person. He held the important role of Queen's Champion from 1946 until he passed away in 2015. This was a family tradition!
He was present at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. During this grand event, he acted as the Standard-Bearer of the Union Flag, which is the flag of the United Kingdom.
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Who Was John Dymoke?
John Dymoke was a British Army officer and a significant figure in his community. He was known for his long-standing family connection to a unique historical role. His life involved both military service and important civic duties.
The Queen's Champion: A Special Role
The Queen's Champion is a very old and honorable position. It's a hereditary role, meaning it passes down through certain families, usually from parent to child. The Champion's job used to be to challenge anyone who questioned the new monarch's right to the throne during their coronation. This challenge was a symbolic act, showing loyalty and strength.
What Did the Champion Do?
In earlier times, the Champion would ride into Westminster Hall on horseback during the coronation banquet. They would throw down a gauntlet (a special glove) and challenge anyone who dared to say the new King or Queen was not the rightful ruler. If no one picked up the gauntlet, it meant everyone accepted the monarch. By the time of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953, this part of the ceremony had changed. John Dymoke's role was still very important, representing this ancient tradition.
A Long Family History: The Manor of Scrivelsby
John Dymoke was the 34th person in his family to hold the Manor of Scrivelsby. This family connection goes all the way back to the Norman Conquest in 1066! The Dymoke family has been linked to the role of King's or Queen's Champion for centuries because of their ownership of this manor. It's a remarkable example of history continuing through generations.
Public Service in Lincolnshire
Besides his unique family role, John Dymoke also served his county, Lincolnshire, in important ways.
- He was the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire in 1979. A High Sheriff is a ceremonial officer of the Crown, representing the monarch in the county.
- He also served as the Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire from 1991 to 2001. A Lord-Lieutenant is the Queen's personal representative in a county. The Vice Lord-Lieutenant assists them.
These roles show his dedication to public service and his community.
