United in remembrance
THE nation and local communities have been united in grief and remembrance following the announcement last week of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
At this sad time of mourning The Cheltenham Trust as the custodian of some of the town’s most iconic venues, has created space for people to take the opportunity to mark their respect and express condolences.
In partnership with Cheltenham Borough Council, books of condolence are available at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, Pittville Pump Room and the Municipal Offices.
The books are open for signatures and messages at The Wilson, from Monday to Saturday 8.30am to 6pm and on Sunday 8.30am to 4pm, the Pump Room every day 9am to 5pm and at Cheltenham Borough Council’s Municipal Office Monday to Friday, from 9am to 7.30pm.
To honour the UK’S longest-serving monarch after reigning for 70 years, The Wilson has curated a tribute and display that commemorates visits and links between HM Queen Elizabeth II and Cheltenham.
The display includes a souvenir programme from Princess Elizabeth’s visit to Cheltenham and a programme from her Coronation in 1953, as well as a poster proposing a wedding gift from the Borough of Cheltenham to Princess Elizabeth on the occasion of her marriage to Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, on November 20, 1947.
A signed and framed letter to the people of Cheltenham from the newly married Princess expresses thanks for the wedding gift received.
In addition, memorabilia has been curated that marks the seventy years of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, including the Echo’s coverage of the Diamond Jubilee in 2012.
The venues provide a quiet space for reflection and to convey respects remembering the service provided to our country by Queen Elizabeth. Everyone is welcome.
Pittville Pump Room and The Wilson will both be closed on Monday September 19 for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II funeral, with the books reopening for final signatures and messages on Tuesday September 20.