Queen & Prince Philip Begin Jubilee Tours in Leicester

Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh kicked off their Diamond Jubilee tours of the country today in Leicester. They were joined by the Duchess of Cambridge.

The trio departed from London’s St Pancras station this morning, arriving in Leicester just over an hour later. They were greeted by Leicester’s station manager, Mr David Oldershaw. The first stop on the royal timetable was a cultural dance in the De Montfort Square, before heading over to De Montfort University, where the Queen and Catherine watched a fashion show assembled by the University’s students. After the show, the Duchess was able to choose a pair of shoes out of six designs by a group of students to be made for her. Becka Hunt’s 19th century-inspired navy blue heels were the chosen pair – Ms Hunt called the selection “amazing.”

Meanwhile, Prince Philip was meeting with students and others involved with the Square Mile Project, learning about the way the program helps to improve the life and surroundings of the communities surrounding the university. The Duke was also given the honour of presenting the Inglehurst Junior School with a trophy to mark their win in the Play Dough Project, one of the Square Mile’s initiatives. The Play Dough Project had the aim of teaching primary school children about wise investments, while exposing them to the university teaching experience. The Square Mile Project was launched in September last year.

Crowds of thousands greeted the royal party at each stop of their day, especially outside the Leicester Cathedral. Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip and Catherine took part in a service which combined the traditional Christian service with multi-faith elements. The royals sat at the front of the Cathedral and sang along with the opening hymn. They also signed the Cathedral’s guest book on a specially decorated page marking the Jubilee tour.

Following the service, it was over to St Martins House a short distance away, where a brief reception was held and the Queen – whose main Jubilee celebrations will take place in June – met with Leicester’s faith leaders. A lunch was then held in the House’s Grand Hall.

The last stop for the royal party before heading back to London was a visit to Leicester Clock Tower, for the unveiling of a plaque commemorating the visit and where they were presented with a gift from the City. The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and the Duchess of Cambridge watched a performance through the Holi Festival called ’60 Colours’.

Click here to read more about the visit.

Filed under The United Kingdom
Tagged Children, Education, Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee, Fashion, The Duchess of Cambridge, The Duke of Edinburgh.

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