Procession of HM The Queen Mother's Coffin LONDON April 2002

                                       

Following her death in March, 2002, The Queen Mother's Coffin was taken in a procession to Westminster Hall, London, where it was to lie-in state.  

I was on Horse Guards Parade, a place so connected with royal events, to witness this day.  It was, and always will be, one of the most memorable royal events I have attended.  The Crown on top of her coffin, with her family and staff walking silently behind her, alongside the sounds of bands and pipers. 

Her Senior Page, William Tallon, is seen in the procession with other members of her Household Staff.

Afterwards I queued up for hours to file past the Coffin in Westminster Hall. As it was my turn, the guard changed, and the Yeoman of the Guard took up their positions to guard beside the catafalque. For a moment i was stood beside the coffin of the Queen Mother in silent tribute. The way the coffin was lit in the Hall was very atmospheric and etched many memories in the minds of those who were there.

Some of the floral tributes outside Clarence House, and the statue of her beloved husband, King George VI, which stands on 
The Mall.

Photographs Copyright: Paul Ratcliffe