Wednesday 28 June 2017

The Funeral of Countess Mountbatten of Burma


Philip Knatchbull

Michael John Knatchbull

Timothy Knatchbull with his wife Isabella and their children

India Hicks

Lady Pamela Hicks


The New Earl & Countess Mountbatten of Burma




The Queen tenderly touches Prince Philip's hand as they arrive at the service.

























The Royal Family were out in force for the Funeral Service of Countess Mountbatten of Burma.
Held in St Paul's Church, Knightsbridge, London on Tuesday 27th June 2017.

The Countess had an amazing life, and in 1979 suffered great tragedy when her family were involved in the IRA attack which killed her Father, Lord Louis Mountbatten, and one of her sons, Amongst others killed were her Mother-in-Law and a local young boy. It was one of the worst, high profile attacks and unimaginable to think what she went through.The Countess was severly injured herself, along with her husband, Lord Brabourne. Remaining in hospital for many months with her severe injuries.

Fifteen members of the Royal Family attended the Funeral, along with the Countess's family, relations and friends. Amongst those attending were HM The Queen, TRH Prince Philip, Prince Charles, Prince Andrew, Sophie Countess of Wessex, Princess Alexandra, The Duchess of Gloucester, Prince Michael of Kent, Princess Anne and her husband Timothy Laurence, Lady Helen and Tim Taylor, Lady Sarah Chatto, The Earl of St Andrews and his son Lord Downpatrick.

Her coffin was solemnly taken from the church after the 55 minute service by members of the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia's Light Infantry ) 2PPCXLI, known as 'The Patricias'. Whilst the Bell of the Church Tolled its tribute.

Her children watched as her coffin was placed back in the hearse. The new Earl Mountbatten (formerly Norton Romsey, later Brabourne on his fathers death) looked very fragile as his wife, Penny, Countess Mountbatten of Burma held onto him.

The Queen and Prince Philip left first, with many members of the Family going to a family reception at the Berkeley Hotel next to the Church. Some royals left by car at the front entrance, smiling at well-wishers and press.

It was a solemn occasion to pay tribute to a remarkable lady. A chapter of history having been closed with her death.

Tuesday 20 June 2017

Trooping the Colour 2017




The Irish Guards Regimental Mascot, Domnhall


One of the Guards (The Street Liners) who collapsed with the heat)













Some Members of the public getting into the party spirit!























The Red Arrows flying over the Queen Victoria Monument






Lady Amelia Windsor


The Queen's Birthday Parade - 2017

As always the highlight of the Royal Year. This year in intense heat, the Queen and her family processed to Horse Guards Parade. Alongside her in the Procession, The Duchess of Cornwall, Cambridge & Gloucester.

This years Parade took a more sombre note with all the recent events in the United Kingdom, with The Queen marking a 1 minute silence at Buckingham Palace before she left.

The Royal Family appeared on the balcony, and this year, once again, it was the younger Royals who stole the day. Prince George and Princess Charlotte, and Isla and Savannah Phillips (the grandchildren of Princess Anne)

Photographs (C) Paul Ratcliffe

NOT FOR REPRODUCTION

Harewood House

HRH Princess Mary Some of Princess Mary's hats All Saint's Church, Harewood The Penguin Pool The Stupa A Heron having a moment to hi...