Claude Horatio Ringwood is a long serving soldier in the service of Queen Victoria in the 2nd Battalion of the Sherwood Foresters (Derbyshire Regiment) formally the 95th Regiment of Foot. He has fought in many campaigns whilst serving Her Majesty and has risen to the rank of pioneer sergeant. While engaged oversees the good sergeant received a wound that made him temporarily unfit for foreign service.
He has been based at the regimental depot and seconded to a recruiting party whose job is to convince young gentlemen (and for this presentation young ladies) that a career in the army is a good idea and they should accept the Queen's shilling (as well as a cash bounty if they are lucky).
The good sergeant resplendent in scarlet tunic with polished brasses; pipe clayed belt and shining shoes positively exudes manliness and good humour. However he knows all of the tricks of the trade to achieve his ends to get recruits for his regiment.
After convincing his potential recruits, Sergeant Ringwood forms a drill squad for any volunteers. He issues broomsticks for small children and even deactivated rifles for adults (of whom there is never a shortage). He then teaches a very simple rifle drill with a prize for the best recruit who is picked by a volunteer 'General' from the audience. The presentation lasts about 30 minutes and can be repeated as many times as required. It must be emphasised that the event is designed to be light hearted and fun as well as educational. The good sergeant is always well received at every event in which he participates.
Sergeant Ringwood can also be employed as a ‘walkabout' character at a Victorian themed event. He is extremely eye catching and is glad to talk to members of the public about his time in the army. He carries genuine Victorian coins in his pocket and photographs of his family. He can, if required, turn out in full marching order of white buff leather equipment. Sergeant Ringwood is a very imposing character that will enhance any Victorian event.
