I am, as we all are, deeply saddened at the news of the loss of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The tributes that have been shared across the world over the last week have been so moving, and testament to her work and legacy.
I know from reading the entries in the local book of condolence at Sevenoaks District Council, that Her Majesty touched the hearts of many across Sevenoaks and Swanley, and on Saturday in the House of Commons it was an honour to pay tribute to her on behalf of our community.
In the speech I reflected on the Queen’s relationship with probably our most famous former resident, Her Majesty’s first Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill. Sir Winston first met Princess Elizabeth when she was just two years old. Describing her on the day of her coronation he said she was ‘a lady whom we respect because she is our Queen, and who we love because she is herself’.
Chartwell, Churchill’s country home for more than forty years, is filled with his cherished possessions. However, on my recent trip there, one photo in particular stood out, and has been in my mind since we received the statement we all dreaded from Buckingham Palace on Thursday evening.
In Churchill’s bedroom I saw a framed photograph of him on Buckingham Palace’s balcony on V.E. Day. He hung it himself. In the photograph, he is standing next to the then King and Queen, and Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. The photograph is signed by all four members of the Royal Family and celebrates one of the most important moments in Churchill’s life and career, as well as the history of Britain.
However, for Churchill to hang this picture on his bedroom wall – his inner sanctum – shows just how important it was to him. The photo symbolises not only victory against tyranny, but the vital role that the royal family played in his wartime leadership, and the strength of the relationship between Parliament and the Crown – something which has been very evident in the past week.
Following on from the sad occasion of the death of the Queen, Chartwell are now displaying this picture in the house for all to see. It is an incredible piece of history, and one I would strongly encourage you to visit. I would also like to thank Katherine Carter, Curator at Chartwell, for her support with my speech.
Thursday 8th September 2022 was the saddest day because Queen Elizabeth II was the greatest monarch. She has been the constant in all our lives, through the good and the bad. A true servant of our nation, her dedication and commitment were simply unrivalled.
As we mourn her passing, let us always remember her faith, her fortitude, and her devotion to our country.
We thank you Ma’am. We owe you so much.
God Save the King.
