Ray Barefield attends Queen’s Garden Party
Bicester EOC Control Manager Ray Barefield had the honour to represent the Trust at one of The Queen’s Garden Parties on 22 May. Garden parties have been held at Buckingham Palace since the 1860s, when Queen Victoria instituted what were known as ‘breakfasts’ (though they took place in the afternoon). In the 1950s the number of garden parties held at Buckingham Palace was increased from two to three a year. They took the place of presentation parties attended by debutantes, but have evolved into a way of rewarding and recognising public service. They are attended by approximately 8,000 guests. People from all walks of life are invited on the recommendation of national organisations such as the NHS who submit lists on a prearranged quota. This practice ensures that a representative cross-section of the community is invited and that guests are generally people who have contributed a large amount to their various organisations or society. The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh, accompanied by other members of the Royal Family, enter the garden to the National Anthem played by one of the two military bands. Most people like to dress up for their special day. Gentlemen wear morning dress or lounge suits, while women wear afternoon dress, usually with hats or fascinators. National dress and uniform are also often worn. Ray said: “Being nominated by the Trust to attend The Queen’s garden party was a pleasant surprise and a great honour. “It was an enjoyable day, the atmosphere was great and it was nice to get up close to the Royal Family, something you don’t do every day and having the chance so to see so many well-known celebrities.”
10
/
June 2013