Vigil was poignant, dignified and perfect
WHAT a moving sight to behold: the procession flanked by soldiers and bowmen, with the King and his siblings following behind the hearse en route to St Giles’ Cathedral. The Royal Mile in Edinburgh was lined by a huge gathering of silent onlookers.
I became emotional watching this on TV, full of sorrow for the passing of the Queen and proud of our nation. We are the only county in the world that could stage such a dignified ceremony. The day’s solemn events culminated in the Vigil of the Princes by the Queen’s four children — what a mark of respect. Her Majesty was my ‘boss’ for the 19 years I served in the RAF and though long retired, I would gladly answer our King’s call to arms.
ROBIN KIRKHAM, Swaffham, Norfolk. I WAS holding it together during the TV coverage of the procession in Edinburgh, but when Charles and his three siblings stood vigil on each side of their beloved mother’s coffin, that just did it for me and the tears welled up. What a beautiful gesture, all four of them stoically mourning and protecting their mother. I will never forget that moment.
ANN FIELD, Manchester. I WoUld like to thank the Scottish people for their truly wonderful tribute to the Queen on her journey from Balmoral to Edinburgh. What was remarkable was the respect and silence of the crowds at the roadside. The Queen loved her summer holidays in Balmoral. Scotland was where she
really felt at home and, looking at the countryside along the route of her last journey, you can see why.
Mrs A. PORTER, Darlington, Co. Durham. I JoINEd the thousands of folk who thronged the funeral route to show my respect. What struck me immediately when I joined the massive queues on the streets of Aberdeen was the warm and friendly atmosphere. People of all ages had made the effort to say goodbye to our amazing Queen who
showed total dedication. It was truly a day to remember for the rest of my life.
DENNIS FORBES GRATTAN, Aberdeen. I WAS disappointed that when King Charles and his siblings took their places at the vigil in St Giles’ Cathedral, they were not afforded just a few minutes away from the scrutiny of the public filing past the coffin. Surely that was the time to close the doors and turn off the cameras.