There are some events in life that you never wish to happen but they do. The death of Queen Elizabeth II was one of them someone who had dedicated their life to others is one who should be respected so when the call came out for help, I felt compelled to volunteer.

I was told that Girlguiding was asked for 150 volunteers to support Operation London Bridge (the code name for the Queen’s funeral arrangements) but in true guiding style 600 volunteered. I feel this shows not only the commitment of Girlguiding but also the love and loyalty that we had for our patron. I was one of those who had the privilege to be part of the events on the Sunday before Her Majesty the Queen’s funeral. It was an honor to be not only representing Girlguiding but also Greater Manchester West and the Northwest of England. Part of our promise is to serve the queen and our community and to help other people, stewarding at the lying-in-state provided an opportunity to fulfil all these obligations.

After the “Team London” welcome and briefing explaining our role, I was allocated to the south of Lambeth Bridge with two other guide leaders, it was a busy location as the queue for the lying-in-state passed through this area and there were also many visitors and tourists making their way through the busy streets. Our role was to answer any questions, provide directions and information and generally be a welcome face whilst ensuring members of the public had a good experience.

The shift went very quickly but has left many unforgettable memories, It was heart-warming to talk with a family from Somerset three generations joined together in paying respects to her majesty, the grandfather was proud and keen to share his stories of his life and service to his country. I also encountered a gentleman with early stages of dementia whose son wanted to create some new memories with his father whilst it was still possible. They had already paid their respects to the queen but came back to write on the National Covid Remembrance Wall as they had lost close family members recently. Showing much determination after waiting seven hours in the queue to see the queen lying in state was a lady who looked very weary, I stopped to check on her, she remembered that she had not taken her morning tablets so I was able to get her seated and assist her, she had another 3 plus hours to still wait but she continued in her quest. These were just a few of the people I was able to support in paying their respects to Her Majesty the Queen.

Everyone was just so grateful for what we were doing and the spirit of togetherness was very evident, not only by those waiting in the queue but also by those working to support them. Team working was at its best with guides and scouts, St John Ambulance, the Samaritans, faith representatives, Team London, Greater London Authority, as well as the police and the ambulance service.

It was an unforgettable experience, I really valued being able to help those who needed help, talk to those who needed to talk and giving direction to those that were lost. I have been involved in Girlguiding for a relatively short period of time but I have had many opportunities to develop new skills, meet great people and make a difference to people’s lives. When I reflect on what this event and Girlguiding means to me the words that spring to mind are gratitude, respect and pride.

Queen Elizabeth II once said, “I know no simple formula for success, but over the years I have observed that some attributes of leadership are universal and are often about finding ways of encouraging people to combine their efforts, their talents, their insights, their enthusiasm and their inspiration to work together” These words echo what I see as the ethos of Girlguiding and a lesson I will take forward in my future role.

Thank you to your Ma’am for your devoted service and your legacy.

Georgina Clark – Leader in Training 3rd Hale Brownies