Two weeks ago, I was privileged to attend a champagne reception at St. James' Palace in London, which was given in connection with the launch of the official biography of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother. We were given a fascinating talk in the sumptuous Throne Room within the palace, by William Shawcross, who spent six years in researching and writing the biography. Afterwards, we were taken on a tour of Clarence House, the London home of HRH Prince Charles and the Princes William and Harry, before the champagne and canapes were served in a ground floor room overlooking the gardens. At this point I should explain that St. James' Palace and Clarence House are adjoining buildings with inter-connecting doors. Clarence House was also, of course, the London home of The Queen Mother from 1952 to the time of her death in 2002. Finally, before leaving, William Shawcross signed copies of his book for each of us.

I was accompanied by my good neighbour to this prestigeous event after which we strolled along The Mall for an evening meal at the Scottish restaurant, 'Albannach', in Trafalgar Square. A quick taxi ride then took us back to Victoria Station where we caught the last train home to West Sussex.

Photography is not permitted in The Palace, Clarence House or the gardens, so Janet and I posed for photos outside Buckingham Palace which we passed earlier:



Walking along The Mall after the reception, we passed Carlton House Terrace:



And here is my copy of his book signed by William Shawcross:





What a day!

Take care,
Ham.

[PS: The biography contains over 1,000 pages, so it will be quite a read!]