RoSPA 100 - Cucumber Sandwiches on the lawn

RoSPA celebrates it's 100 year in 2017, and as part of these celebrations a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace was arranged with members from all aspects of the organisation being invited. This included RoADAR representatives from groups around the country.

The Royal Host of the the party was HRH Prince Andrew, RoSPA's patron.

East Yorkshire Advanced Riders & Drivers selected our Chair, John Wright and Secretary, Chris Hood to attend as our group ambassadors - along with Chris wife, Jill.

The day started with a train ride into central London from St Albans for the three representatives on what can only be described as a perfect summers day.

With the gates opening at 3pm an ice cream in Green Park was the order of the day to cool down before going to the Palace!

18622186_1679615852053433_8028317423895585757_n

18620288_1679615638720121_5672038364182832218_n

Security was, as one would expect, quite tight to enter the grounds, with official invitation allowing initial entry whilst further photo ID checks were required to enter the Palace itself.

Following a walk through the main entrance, and into the Quadrant, guests were taken through a reception and onto the lawns themselves where refreshing lemon barley water was served in the searing heat of the mid afternoon sun!

Two military bands played constantly though the day, alternating with various rousing music from military marches through to the theme music to the Bond movie Spectre and Raiders of the Lost Ark!

The royal party, Prince Andrew and Princess Eugenie officially opened the garden party around 4pm and wandered through he lawns speaking with RoSPA officials as they did so.

The Royal Tea Tent saw the official 'stuff' going on whilst guests were served a selection of cucumber & mint (yes really - with the crusts cut off!) and ham and tomato sandwiches, and selected cakes, with tea or iced coffee.

As guests continued to enjoy the sunshine and band music ice cream was served on the lawns, and the gardens were open to stroll around.

The Royal party retired around 5pm and everyone took the opportunity for some final photographs before leaving through the main palace and back onto the Mall

18698458_1679633828718302_1122228496352572351_n

18740338_1679633292051689_9176713684306282822_n

18664503_1679711235377228_1153479080163387486_n

18670903_1679633418718343_942683596922321001_n

18698315_1679615928720092_3600301969520373087_n

A wonderful day, made all the better by perfect weather.

John, Chris and Jill were all honoured to represent E-YARD at such an esteem event, and would like to thank the group for allowing them the opportunity yo do so on their behalf.