TOWER-ing achievement for new beefeater Alex

A MERSEYSIDE dad is among the latest recruits to continue a unique tradition that has stretched back centuries.

- By JESS MOLYNEUX

Former RAF Regiment Gunner Alex Macdonald, from Wirral, had a 34-year career in the Royal Air Force Regiment, including multiple operational deployments in the UK and overseas.

Earlier in his career, the dad-of-one served with the Queen’s Colour Squadron and later worked with the RAF UK Youth and STEM team, helping to build capability, confidence, and connections among young people across the country.

But now, Alex is about to begin a new chapter as he becomes the Tower of London's latest 'Beefeater'.

The role of Yeoman Warder (YW), popularly known by the nickname Beefeater, originates from the band of warders who guarded the Tower of London and its prisoners from the reign of William the Conqueror in the 11th century. Now YW Macdonald will join 35 existing members who safeguard the historic fortress and help bring its stories to life for millions of visitors every year.