We at HSSP Architects are dedicated to our work and our clients, but no one in this world could have been more dedicated to their vocation than Queen Elizabeth II. It was naturally with shock and sadness we learned of her passing, and all of us know that life will never be quite the same ever again.
During the period of national mourning for The Queen, the HSSP team share their memories with amusing twists of this wonderful lady, in line with The Queen’s own legendary sense of humour.
In 1994 one of our directors, James, was then an architectural student and almost met The Queen at the opening of Milton Keynes University. All the architect students were lined up, including James, patiently waiting…. and then she chose to speak to the lady standing next to him!
1996 saw The Queen visiting Melton Mowbray and creating a memorable day for the HSSP team. HSSP’s offices were originally on Asfordby Road – the main arterial route that the royal car travelled along. The team turned out in force onto the pavement and took great delight in waving The Queen on her journey. Being in the home town of the famous Melton Mowbray Pork Pie, she was presented with a commemorative pork pie, with the crowds thronging to see her.
Diamond Jubilee celebrations were held at Leicester Cathedral in 2012 as part of The Queen’s jubilee tour. One of our directors, Nick’s, scout band were also celebrating their 60th anniversary and were invited to play outside the cathedral. It also happened to be Nick’s then 5 year old daughter’s birthday, so The Queen and the Duchess of Cambridge in effect came to her 5th birthday party!!
Also in 2012, our finance & business manager Ros’ sister and her husband were to be presented to The Queen at Windsor. Ros was in place, camera in hand, to capture this magnificent moment, but just before the royal party arrived, they got switched to the other side, so were introduced to the Duke of Edinburgh instead! Ros still managed to get a glimpse of The Queen, and she has seen her various times over the years when attending Trooping the Colour in London.
Most poignantly, one of our chartered architects, Mark, is the last person in the team to ever sing the national anthem ‘God Save The Queen’ at St Bartholomew the Great, London, on the morning of the Queen’s passing. This was followed by lunch in the Great Hall at Butcher’s Hall with the Worshipful Company of Butchers who all joined in a loyal toast to the Queen. He feels very honoured to have been able to sing and toast to her when he did.
These are all fantastic once in a lifetime memories that will be treasured forever.
By HSSP Architects
