Former Lt-Governor dies at the age of 93
FORMER Lt-Governor Sir Alexander Boswell has died at his home in Scotland.
The 93-year-old served as the Queen’s representative to the Bailiwick between 1985 and 1990.
He introduced the Lt-Governor’s cadet scheme during his term, which is still running to this day.
He joined the army shortly after the Second World War. During his military career he was second-in-command of his battalion during the Indonesia-Malaysia confrontation, as well as commanding the 39th Infantry Brigade in Northern Ireland during the Troubles.
David Hodgetts served as his secretary and ADC during his Guernsey term. However Mr Hodgetts and Sir Alexander had first met while they were serving in Berlin and later Sir Alexander was Mr Hodgetts’ brigade commander in Northern Ireland.
‘He was a first-class soldier,’ Mr Hodgetts said.
‘He was slightly reserved and quiet, but behind that was a very active mind. He had a great interest in all that was going on.’
Sir Alexander moved to the island for the role with Lady Boswell – who died in 2018 – and both were very active in island life.
‘He was a great friend to Guernsey and people will also remember Lady Boswell and they were both immersed in Guernsey,’ Mr Hodgetts said.
‘They had a very successful five years. They were particularly good at starting off events, like the Christmas party for people with special needs.’
He said the Lt-Governor’s cadet scheme was very much Sir Alexander’s idea.
‘He was keen to include young people in Guernsey life and this was a way to do that,’ Mr Hodgetts said.
‘We designed a medal for it. It really gave young people confidence, as they were meeting royals. He had a great impact on the role of Lt-Governor.’
Sir Alexander died at his home in East Lothian on Saturday morning.
