Half a millenia!

[Felix/FFDS]

*I* wouldn't go around poking people that have swords and other sharp things with which they can poke you!

[ozzy72]

The guys in the bearskin hats actually come from one of four regiments, either the Scots Guards, Irish Guards, Welsh Guards or Grenadier Guards.
The way to tell the difference is the little coloured thingie (that I can't remember the name of at this early hour) on their hat

[Hagar]

You forgot the Coldstream Guards. Details here. http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/customs/questions/royal/footguard.htm

[ozzy72]

Whoops! Thanks Doug

[Hagar]

Whoops! Thanks Doug

I have to watch you chaps like a hawk.

The way to tell the difference is the little coloured thingie (that I can't remember the name of at this early hour) on their hat

Those little thingies are called plumes. http://www.changing-the-guard.com/guards.htm

[ozzy72]

I couldn't think of that word this morning Doug... I was in my pre-coffee/tea/solids state and the braincell wasn't even ticking over