Royal Recognition

 for the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Victoria Cross Committee

The Garden Party at Buckingham Palace.

On Thursday, 22^nd July 2010, members of the Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Victoria Cross

 Committee and their Ladies, attended a Summer Garden Party in the grounds of Buckingham Palace.

We arrived in good time, and were amongst the first to be admitted. We were all thrilled to access the Palace through the Front Gates of the Grand Entrance, and then to make our way into the grounds via the Garden Entrance. As we made our way to the lawn at the rear, we were flanked by the northern side of the Palace looming high above us on one side, and the famous Herbaceous Border on the other. On reaching the corner of the building, a huge expanse of grass came into view, with the various tea tents and other facilities strategically located. Stretching away to our left and overlooking the lawn was the magnificent elevation of the West Terrace.

Chairs and tables were located adjacent to the Main Tea Tent and, being early to arrive, we obtained some of the best seats in the house – or in this case the garden!!

The weather was generally bright, sunny and very warm. The occasional dark cloud did pass over accompanied by the slightest drops of rain, but I don’t think that even a downpour could have marred either the atmosphere or the view!!

Tea was served from 3.30pm onwards and yes, along with other delicious and savoury fillings, we did have cucumber sandwiches with the crusts neatly trimmed off!! In addition there was a wide selection of cakes which not only looked amazing but tasted divine. To finish, we were served with a very tasty tub of lemon flavoured ice cream.

At 3.40pm the Yeoman of the Guard took up position, and at 4.00pm exactly, the National Anthem announced the arrival of Her Majesty The Queen on the Terrace Steps. Spontaneous applause broke out, and you could not fail to be moved by the warmth and affection of the welcome which was given to our Monarch.

The Queen, accompanied by Prince Phillip and other Members of the Royal Family, then made their way to The Royal Tea Tent along preformed lanes flanked by Yeoman of the Guard. Guests crowded round to get a good view of The Royal Party.

Throughout the afternoon, whilst two military bands played alternately, elegant ladies wearing some wonderful, creative, and in some cases gravity defying headgear, promenaded across the spacious lawn accompanied by gentlemen dressed in a variety of suits, uniforms and clerical garb. It provided an amazing sight!!

All too soon, The Queen and Members of the Royal Family made ready to depart, and at 5.50pm the Royal Party made its way back through assembled guests to the West Terrace. Shortly afterwards we enjoyed our last view of Her Majesty The Queen disappearing into the Palace.

At 6.00pm precisely, The National Anthem was played, followed by further applause, and the last Palace Garden Party of 2010 came to a resounding end!!

It had been a truly memorable day, and we all felt both honoured and privileged to have been invited. It was one of those times when you felt proud to be British.