Queen's Visit to Nottingham

Photo: Simon McMurdo

By the time 10 o'clock rolled around, the streets of Nottingham were heaving with anxious spectators, gathered around in a semi-circle and facing Old Market Square's grand Council House. Fifteen minutes later, cheers embellished the air, greeting Her Majesty as she entered through Middle Pavement, Albert Street and Wheeler Gate into the vast audience.

It's fitting that she was joined by the recently-wed Duchess and Duke of Cambridge, Catherine, wearing Missoni  and Rachel Trevor Morgan, and Prince William; a pair that have reignited the flame of patriotism in the country  amongst the youth. The two, alongside the Queen who was dressed in a mint-coloured Stewart Parvin outfit, took time to greet the excitable crowds, some of which had been gathered for almost six hours.

A brief visit to the inside of the Council House began, most notably including a scene on the balcony in which Her Majesty waved to the crowds, donning a telling smile of appreciation, with Catherine and William standing each side of her. After retreating into the house for a short while, meeting Lord Lieutenants from both Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire as well as a selection of other guests, the crowds erupted to mark their exit a little after 11am.

Photo: Simon McMurdo

Continuing their trip through the city centre of Nottingham, the royal party exited via Queen Street, making their way through Upper Parliament Street, destined for Basford; the crowds, after waving goodbye, soon dispersed. Within minutes, only the barriers stood in the centre of the square but the excitement was tangible even after the departure, with retailers making the most of the large crowds and flags being waved and hung around the city in recognition of a diamond jubilee that is still enjoying nationwide celebration.


Simon McMurdo