Soldiers from 4th Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Scotland (4Scots) have been based in Dhekelia, Cyprus, since August. The tradition dates back to the Second World War, when soldiers deployed in harsh conditions sought to bring some Christmas cheer to bleak positions. The battalion is deployed in Cyprus over the festive period (4Scots/PA)A regiment-wide blanket decorating competition evolved during the war, with the owner of the best-looking blanket crowned the winner. The troops will remain in Cyprus over the festive season as part of the British Army’s high-readiness standby force. His blanket depicts a stag standing among poppies, and is designed to remember those who came before.

Source: The Times December 26, 2025 00:12 UTC