OUR MEMORIES OF THE QUEEN

For many years, "Friend" readers have written to the magazine to share stories of their encounters with royalty. Here, we share a selection of our favourites.

Guest Of Honour

The day I met the Queen was May of this year, 1977. Her Majesty was visiting Govan in Glasgow as part of the Jubilee Celebrations. My new house had been chosen for the Queen to view. The only people to be in the house were my husband, myself, and our three children.

I had been preparing the house and keeping everything spick and span for this great occasion. The visit was scheduled for 10.40 a.m. I had been up at six o'clock that morning getting the children's hair washed and making sure I had everything in order.

The people were beginning to line the streets from 9 a.m. I could see them from my window. Children were everywhere, waving their flags. I was very excited by this time. My husband, Albert, was very calm but the children were nervous.

Albert and I were asked to stand outside and invite the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh into our home.

The time had arrived for the visit. I saw the Royal car coming through the crowds, and knew in fifteen minutes the Royal couple would come into our house.

The Queen was dressed in a beautiful blue dress, hat, and coat. I asked her if she would like to see round the house. By this time my children were less nervous, as the Duke of Edinburgh was joking with them and asking about their friends and hobbies.

The Queen sat on the couch and talked to my husband. I offered Her Majesty and the Duke a cup of tea, but the Queen said she couldn't accept as she had a tight schedule to keep.

I was a bit disappointed as I had bought beautiful new china and had prepared salmon sandwiches, cakes, and biscuits.

The Queen then saw all round the house and we spoke about the children, my work, and all the things women speak about. I was frightened in case I didn't know what to say, but Her Majesty quickly put me at my ease.

The Duke of Edinburgh was shown round by my husband along with the children.