AS the nation prepares for the Queen’s state funeral today, retired history teacher and regular T&A writer DAVE WELBOURNE shares his memory of a day spent with Her Majesty, and reflects on her long reign:

It was a shock, but no surprise to hear the sad news of the Queen’s death.

I immediately recalled that in 2007 - the year after I retired from teaching - I was invited to attend the Queen’s Garden Party, in her own ‘back garden’ at Buckingham Palace.

On this occasion I was honoured and privileged to be present along with others from all walks of life from across the world. They had been invited because of some contribution they had made. I was there because of the “outstanding contribution” I had made during a lifelong career in teaching.

There was a moment when the gathered throng saw the Queen and Prince Philip, along with other members of the Royal Family, walk into the garden, with the brass band playing amidst the pomp and ceremony. We all lined up and the Queen stopped occasionally to chat with the guests. Although I did not have a ‘one to one’ with her, I felt proud to be there.

It was a formal occasion set within an informal and relaxed atmosphere. There was security, but this was not noticeable as we were all made to feel ’important’.

We were allowed to wander around the garden and parts of Buckingham Palace. I thought only the British, and the Queen, could put on ‘such a do’.

The lasting impression I had was how regal she was, and how she had interest in all her subjects. Her reign was the longest in British history, and I remember her fondly.

She has had to experience countless national, world, and family moments which have caused disarray, yet she has remained dignified, and held the country together, when politicians have been responsible for so many conflicts, disappointments, and frictions.

She has been admired throughout the world, and her death has been shared by millions, and even none monarchists.

At times the Royal Family has undergone criticism, and it has been questioned whether it should really exist in the modern world.

But the Queen rode the storms, and remained popular. She put her own stamp on what the monarchy should be like, and ‘the second Elizabethan age’ will be regarded as a success. She will be difficult to follow, but she adapted, as her successors must.

It is with sadness that we witness the end of her reign, but remember how she was devoted to the people of her nation and Commonwealth.

* Dave Welbourne taught History at Benton Park School in Rawdon from 1973 and retired as Head of History in 2006.