The Fairfax Battalia were invited to take part in the Queen's Jubilee celebration by providing drill displays at the 'Picnic in the Park' celebration in Bushy Park, West London on Tuesday 24 June. This followed a long association of working with HM Royal Palaces.  The Queen and Prince Philip attended part of the event in the afternoon, although unfortunately she had to leave before our display.  This was probably to the great relief of her security staff, for whom  the thought of forty loaded muskets aimed towards the royal stand must have been something of a nightmare!  The organisers estimated an attendance of 20,000 who were extremely appreciative. A special thanks goes to our guests from Winchester's Regiment who patiently explained the principles of the monarchy to the diehard supporters of the 'Good Old Cause' in the Battalia.  

Page 1 - The Event

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Her Majesty the Queen at the 'Picnic in the Royal Park', with the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Nigel Clark, Representative Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Richmond upon Tames

Throughout the day there was a stream of visitors to the Information Tent

There was a constant demand to try on the armour ...

... with ecstatic responses

Passing on our interest gave us as much pleasure as the children

Visitors are always fascinated by the swords - although we keep a firm grip on them!

The junior members of  Fairfax take their roles just as seriously and were a popular subject for photographs!

It all took place in a carnival atmosphere ...

... leading to some strange encounters

All in all it was a great pleasure and privilege to take part in such an event

Now go to Page 2 to see pictures from the Drill Display

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