CHURCH Hill Big Local has looked back at a magnificent day of pomp and pageantry befitting a Queen, following the passing of Elizabeth II.
In April, the people of Loxley Close woke up to the glorious sounds of the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth (Royal Band) before grabbing a Union Flag and toasting the Queen with a Big Jubilee Lunch.
This surprise party was hosted as a thank you to Church Hill Big Local for its ‘remarkable commitment to celebrating the Jubilee and saying thanks to Her Majesty the Queen’.
Then on Platinum Jubilee weekend, Church Hill Big Local packed into Bomford Hill Park for another day of celebrations.
Those happy memories are in stark contrast to the shock and sadness felt last Thursday when news broke that Queen Elizabeth II had died.
Church Hill Big Local vice-chair Ian Johnson said: “I’m so glad we celebrated in the way we did for the Platinum Jubilee – after the euphoria of those celebrations this last week has been massively deflating.
“It’s not unexpected but it happened so quickly, it’s been such horrible news to receive.
“When we were approached about the special Big Lunch celebrations, we were told The Queen had thanked Church Hill Big Local and we were honoured to receive her Royal Marine Band.”
On Saturday a huge banner commissioned by Church Hill Big Local was put up in the area in tribute to the Queen, which featured a picture of her and simply said ‘Thank you Ma’am, for everything.’
A vigil for the Queen will be held at 7.45pm on Sunday, September 18, at Bomford Hill Park in front of the flag on the Peace Memorial.
The flag has been placed there following The Queen’s death and has been flying at half-mast.
At 8pm there will be a minute’s silence and everyone is welcome to bring a candle or use their mobile phone to shine a light in tribute.
Ian added: “It was the least we could do to say thank you.
“The Queen gave her life in service to the country and we think that the entire country should be thankful.
“God bless the Queen and God Save the King.”
