'Utterly breathtaking' - community spirited woman's royal invite
A right royal day out was enjoyed by a Horwich woman who started a vital community support network during the 2020 Covid lockdown.
Denise Silcock, from Lend a Hand in Horwich, was invited to a royal garden party at Buckingham Palace.
Denise said: "The weather was glorious the sun was shining so brightly it lit up the golden statue at the front of the Palace, as myself and my husband Vic, headed towards the iconic gates to join a most colourful queue.
(Image: Denise Silcock)
"After security checks we stepped into the palace grounds, it felt very surreal.
"Walking through the archway entrance to the Royal Garden my heart literally missed a beat, it was the most amazing sight and utterly breathtaking."
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She added: "Five years ago when I started Lend a Hand in Horwich and surrounding areas Community Support during Lockdown in March 2020, I could have never dreamt I would actually be stood in the garden at Buckingham Palace listening our national anthem played and seeing Prince William and Princess Kate there to host the event on behalf of the HM King Charles III."
(Image: Denise Silcock)
Other members of royalty present included, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.
All the royals walked through the crowds of people who have made a positive contribution to their communities.
(Image: Denise Silcock)
Denise added: "I'm extremely honoured and very proud to have been part of such a marvellous event and given such a wonderful invitation to the Royal Garden Party.
"I am honestly so thrilled it's absolutely unbelievable and I'm so immensely lucky to be invited It's truly incredible and to be in the company of Prince William and Princess Kate, who were both spectacular, is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience I know I will never forget."
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