Fond memories of our monarch (From Salisbury Journal)

Fond memories of our monarch

8:10am Friday 21st April 2006 in Search By David Vallis

AS the nation celebrates the Queen's 80th birthday today, the Journal pays its own tribute to her in pictures.

First as a young princess and then as monarch, she has graced Salisbury and district and the New Forest with a host of visits over the years.

Most have been to grand military occasions at such places as Bulford, Tidworth and Larkhill and there have been visits, too, to Salisbury races and to the stately homes of Wilton House and Longford Castle.

But two visits in particular brought out the crowds and remain in the memories of those who were there.

The first was on July 3, 1952, just five months after the Queen's accession to the throne, when she toured local villages and the city following visits to the Dorset Regiment at Dorchester and parts of the Duchy of Cornwall, including Mere. Then came that memorable occasion on April 11, 1974, when the Queen came to the city for the traditional Easter distribution of the Maundy money.

The ceremony was performed at Salisbury Cathedral and, afterwards, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh delighted thousands of people when they went on a 45-minute walkabout through the city centre.

The Queen will be spending her birthday at Windsor Castle, where Prince Charles will host a family dinner.

And on Sunday, members of the Royal Family will attend a service of thanksgiving at St George's Chapel, Windsor.

The Journal wishes Her Majesty a very happy birthday.

* See this week's Journal for more pictures.