Members see Queen at Jubilee picnic

Over 100 members from Girlguiding and the Trefoil Guild enjoyed a Diamond Jubilee picnic featuring a visit from the Queen, flyovers from the Red Arrows and performances by military bands.

The invitation-only event was held on 13 June at Burghley House Park, Lincolnshire, and spectators watched the Queen arrive by helicopter and plant a tree. She then drove through a lined pathway so that everyone could get a glimpse of her. 

‘To be invited to a party with the Queen is an amazing opportunity and a once-in-a-lifetime experience,’ said Fiona Cordingley, a Leader with 1st Harpole Senior Section Ranger Unit, Northampton, who was at the picnic.  

‘Burghley provided the perfect backdrop for the celebrations. The atmosphere was amazing and everyone was in a celebratory mood - not just celebrating the Jubilee but the recognition for all the hard work and effort that we put in each week. 

Guiding has given me some of the most amazing opportunities but this one has topped them all!,’ she added. 

The participants were treated to performances from county dance and music groups, plus – in addition to the Red Arrow flypast – fly overs from torpedoes, spitfires and an air show.

The picnic was arranged by the Lord Lieutenants of Lincolnshire, Rutland, Northamptonshire and Cambridgeshire. Other attendees included volunteers from other organisations, schoolchildren and those involved in community project work.