A Royal Welcome: Andover Trees United Volunteers have an Exciting Day at Buckingham Palace Garden Party

Two long-term volunteers, Linda Bagnell and Elizabeth Scrace, were thrilled to be chosen to go to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on May 21, 2024.

Elizabeth said, "We set off from Andover in all our finery. By the time we reached London, the rain had started, but that didn't stop anyone's excitement. We all lined up to go into the palace gardens. Inside we found beautiful gardens and a military band playing."

In recognition of Andover Trees United receiving the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, a volunteer was asked to meet a member of the royal family. Elizabeth had the privilege of being invited to join a group of people representing a wide range of charities, from Embroiderers Guild to Australian Wildlife Preservation, who would be presented to the Duke of Gloucester.

The group was very efficiently marshalled into the required order and led down onto the lawn behind the Yeoman of the Guard. "Alongside two other people named Elizabeth, I waited as the Duke of Gloucester spoke to each person, shaking their hand and asking a couple of questions about the work for which they or their charity had been recognised." - Elizabeth Scrace.

After this presentation, Linda and Elizabeth enjoyed an afternoon tea of dainty sandwiches, bite-sized cakes and ice cream and before taking a wander around the gardens.