The Queen and Prince Philip visit Yeovil
On May 3rd 2012, Her Majesty The Queen got a full flavour of the weird and wonderful West Country when she visited Yeovil as part of her Royal Diamond Jubilee tour of Great Britain. The folk of South Somerset celebrated the day by holding a Country Faye which brought together many groups, organisations and establishments showcasing South Somerset.
Travelling to Yeovil by the Royal train she arrived at the Fayre after transferring to her Royal car. Well wishers and enthusiastic children let out a cacophony of screams and cheers with some very excited flag waving as well. Thousands climbed the tree lined banks around the Nine Springs Country Park in Yeovil, creating a pop concert atmosphere for the visit. The Royal party toured around the Fayre to see stall presenting some mouth watering Somerset Food and countryside pursuits.
Taking its place at the Fayre alongside others was a stand from the Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton. Led by Lieutenant Commander Pamela Breach, first Lieutenant of Yeovilton, sailors and marines put on a very popular display allowed the Royal Party to see examples of the work done at Yeovilton. His Royal Highness Prince Philip shock hands with and spoke warmly to those present, taking an interested eye in the picture of the New Queen Elizabeth Carrier displayed. “It was a once in a life time experience meeting the Prince, he asked about my job and the new carriers we’re getting soon”, said Marine Nathan Rundle of the Commando Helicopter Force.
After the Royal party departed the school children of South Somerset got a chance to get hands on, with the display from the base. Pitched along with the Weaver’s baskets and Women’s Institute cakes, Yeovilton’s contribution was aimed at the young, with face painting and equipment handling. Some took the chance to try out the new and old types of Gas Masks on show.
Lt Cdr Beach was proud to be part of the day and presenting the Yeovilton team first to Her Majesty’s then the thousands of eagerly waiting children. “It was a heart warming occasion and it felt good mixing with the children who were really interested in what we do at Yeovilton. Its not often they get chance to talk with the Royal Navy like this”, said Lt Cdr Beach.
The whirlwind Royal visit to Yeovil provided a fond memory for the people of the area to cherish; everyone was pleased to get a chance to see the Queen and Prince Philip. “It all seemed to go really well and the children loved it, A huge thanks to Yeovilton”, said Katy Menday of South Somerset Council.