Rain means changes to Queen’s reception
RAIN drove The Queen’s Birthday reception off the lawn and into Government House for the first time in about 10 years on Saturday.
The event marks The Queen’s official birthday.
The Lt-Governor, Vice Admiral Sir Ian Corder, said the weather had created an opportunity to try something new.
It was unfortunate that the musicians who had been ready to play on the lawn were unable to do so, but they were replaced by pianist Francois Cloete who played the National Anthem to which guests were encouraged to sing along heartily.
Guests included the deputy speaker in the House of Commons, the Rt Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP and his wife, former Archbishop of Canterbury Lord Rowan Williams of Oystermouth, and Ms Katie Roberts, who was escorted by The Dean of Guernsey, the Very Rev. Tim Barker.
Sir Ian paid tribute to the three Bailiwick residents who were recognised in The Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Alderney resident Rosemary James was awarded the BEM for her services to sport and the community in that island.
She had set up the Alderney Tennis Club and encouraged hundreds of youngsters to take up the game.
She was now working tirelessly as a trustee to complete the swimming pool, gym and community centre on the island for which £500,000 had already been raised.
Keith Robins, who could not be present, was made an MBE for his services to vulnerable young people and their families in Guernsey.
Sir Ian said Mr Robins had formed a trusted relationship with some of the most vulnerable Guernsey people over 38 years.
He and his wife had fostered more than 100 youngsters and adopted three, one of which had special needs.
He said Jurat Stephen Jones, who was made an OBE for his services to charities, the community and the Royal Court in Guernsey, was the classic case of a person for whom a day had to have more than 24 hours.
There was also a personal honour from Her Majesty for Government House second cook Sarah Penney, who was awarded the Royal Victorian Medal.
Sir Ian also made reference to-non Bailiwick residents, Guernsey Court of Appeal judge David Anderson QC, who was made a peer, and Colin Hodgetts, the brother of Jurat David Hodgetts, who was made an MBE for his services to refugees.
Free admission to museums Page 8
