II Midlands man’s fond memories working for Queen Elizabeth
Nottingham Road resident Stuart McClelland recalls his first meeting with Queen Elizabeth II was quite a nerve-wracking one.
However, being such a gracious person, she allowed him to gather his composure before engaging in conversation with him.
McClelland, an equestrian from Nottingham Road in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, worked from 2019 to 2021 as a livery helper and footman at the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. It is one of the finest working stables in the world and is responsible for all road travel arrangements for the British Royal Family.
As part of his duties, McClelland had to manage the horses and bring them up to the required standard. He also rode horses for ceremonial engagements between Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.
He said he was honoured to have met the queen on two occasions, once at each of the above royal households.
“The protocols when meeting the royal family are very strict, almost to military standard,” McClelland said.
“My first meeting with the queen was extremely
nerve-wracking as she carries an extreme amount of presence with her. She noticed that I was nervous and waited for me to gather myself before I gave her a report on one of her horses that I was taking care of. She listened attentively, thanked me and then moved on to the next person,” said McClelland.
McClelland described the late monarch as ‘normal, polite and very friendly’.
“She was most relaxed and calm around her horses. She found most joy being with
them,” McClelland added.
He said the news of her death was quite heartbreaking for him. A committed royalist at heart, he said she led an amazing life.
“We now have to positively look towards the future with the new king. Long live the king,” McClelland added.
He described his time at the Royal Mews as a once-in-alifetime opportunity, which he dared not turn down.
He said it was his greatest honour to work in the royal household.