Liz Broomshead receives MBE

An Amazing Day- June 28th 2011- Buckingham Palace

The ordeal of buying an outfit and a HAT!!!! was completed so all that was left was the excitement and nervousness of the BIG DAY. I had been briefed on what to expect on the day by friends who had been themselves.... but it still seemed like a surreal moment.

We travelled down 2 days before by train and stayed with friends in London
There were a 105 other recipients on the day; from Knights and Dames to OBE’s and MBE’s as well as special recognition of bravery by the services. We were all made very welcome in beautiful rooms; a briefing was given on what to say and do, and then you wait for your turn to be called.

A long walk down an amazingly beautiful corridor to the ballroom where the ceremony was to take place; nervously waiting –remembering to say “Mam as in Spam” and then you move to receive... The Queen pins on the beautiful medal, she asks genuinely interested questions about your voluntary work; and then it is over.

Well nearly; you join everyone else who is seated, the Queen leaves and then outside for the official photographs and some unofficial ones with the Yeoman of the Guard.
A walk down the Mall...... a lovely lunch in National Gallery..... And then home with a head full of wonderful memories which I love to share with anyone and everyone who will listen.

Liz Broomhead MBE