The Queen called on the services of the ‘state sleigh’ to start
the royal Christmas celebrations.
Queen Camilla had the historic sleigh designed by Prince Albert
for Queen Victoria brought to Clarence House as a special treat for
the children she had invited in to decorate the Christmas tree.
For 20 years, Queen Camilla has welcomed children with life
changing illnesses to her London home in the run up to Christmas to
help deck the branches of the royal tree.
It’s become one of the best loved royal traditions and was given
an extra regal touch this year with the arrival of Queen Victoria’s
sleigh.
Buckingham Palace called it the ‘State Sleigh’ and The Queen sat
on its red velvet bench to welcome each of the ten children invited
along. They are all supported by Helen & Douglas House and Roald
Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity.
The guests enjoyed a pretend sleigh ride with The Queen and
Santa as part of a magical afternoon.
Inside Clarence House, they helped put the decorations on the
tree. The top branches were looked after by The Queen’s new
equerry,
Major Rob Treasure, who asked the children to choose the trinkets
for the highest branches before looping the baubles on to his sword
and transferring them on to the pines with one swift move.
Queen Camilla loves her tree decorating afternoon and told her
guests that for her, this is the moment that ‘Christmas has
started’.
Later, she served up lunch for the children, offering sausages
and mash shaped as smiley faces and bringing round the gravy
herself. There were also sweet treats and biscuits to top up energy
levels after a bus time decorating the tree.
As if there hadn’t been enough magical moments already, reindeer
were outside by the ‘State Sleigh’ to bring another Christmassy
touch.
Now The Queen’s Christmas season has begun, there’s a busy few
weeks ahead before the Royal Family gathers in Sandringham for
their festive celebrations.
The King is set to talk publicly about his cancer treatment and
recovery as he takes part in a special evening of broadcasting on
Channel 4 in support of Stand Up For Cancer.
On the same day, members of the Royal Family will gather at St.
James’ Palace for the christening of Princess Beatrice’s second
daughter, Athena Mapelli Mozzi.
Royal engagements continue in the days before Christmas while
The King is also recording his festive message which will be
broadcast on Christmas Day.
