Читать книгу The Other Side of the Coin - Angela Kelly - Страница 14

PROLOGUE

Crowning Glory

During my twenty-five years of working closely with Her Majesty The Queen, I am lucky enough to have travelled to some of the most amazing places in the world. But one moment in particular makes me emotional every time: the sight of The Queen putting on her Imperial State Crown at the annual State Opening of Parliament. It is a truly special moment for me, and I am so privileged to play a small part in it. Whenever I see Her Majesty in a Diadem or a tiara, I am composed, but when she puts on the crown, it touches my heart.

We are alone behind the privacy screen in the Robing Room in the Houses of Parliament just before The Queen enters the Chamber to make her speech on behalf of her government. We are silent and serious, concentrating hard, and The Queen is deep in thought. When I have positioned the State Robe on her shoulders, she takes the crown off its cushion, and I watch as The Queen raises it above her head. The magnificence of that moment takes my breath away every time. I watch in awe while I wait for her to secure it. Then Her Majesty turns, gives me a smile, and lets me know that she’s ready to go. And for a moment, I am speechless. Luckily I don’t need to say anything and The Queen always says thank you, and I smile back.

The Queen has seen my emotions get the better of me quite a few times. This happens particularly at special events, such as when I dress Her Majesty for important events and State occasions. Once The Queen has the robe on and places the crown on her head, I feel so proud to be serving Her Majesty in such a unique position. Normally The Queen rolls her eyes and playfully tuts at me when she sees my eyes fill up! Even after all these years, I still find it overwhelming to watch her lift the crown. It is the ultimate reminder of just how lucky I am to be in the presence of The Sovereign, Her Majesty The Queen.