NFA Buckingham Palace garden party

Thirty of our Members and escorts were lucky enough to attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace on 17 May with the Not Forgotten Association (NFA). Member Hazel Dunnett shares her experience...

“Following an invitation from the Working Age Member team at Blind Veteran UK to apply to attend an afternoon party at Buckingham palace, I applied and, to my surprise, was successful. This was much to the delight of my husband, who came along as my taxi driver and carer.

“On arrival at the palace, we were ushered in through security while watched by tourists who were trying to spot anybody famous. As we entered the garden, I suddenly became aware of just how many people were in attendance. I believe there were around 2,500 people!

“Everybody was very welcoming, including the other veterans and guests. We could hear a lone piper who was down by the lake in the garden. It was a lovely walk down to where he was and we were struck by the lack of traffic noise despite the fact we were in the middle of a city - we could just hear the birds. On our return to the main area, we were entertained by the Irish Guards playing ‘Beat the Retreat’.

“Although we didn’t get to meet our host, Princess Anne, personally, she was sat just ten feet away from us. It was so lovely to see her; she was so engaged with everyone she was introduced to and the household staff were extremely kind and helpful. We loved all the Beefeaters, and everyone enjoyed being in their finery.

“It was a long day, but so worthwhile - something we will remember forever. If any of you get the opportunity to attend, we thoroughly recommend it!”