Each year, the Monarch hosts Royal Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace to recognise individuals and organisations for their public service.
This year, guests from Leicester and Leicestershire honoured at these events exemplify those who generously give their time to benefit the community in many ways.
Here are reflections from some local guests who attended this year’s Royal Garden Parties:
Emma Trounson
I was very honoured to receive an invitation from the Lieutenancy to a Royal Garden Party this year, recognising my part in organising the annual Leicester Community Carol Service at St James the Greater Church, where I am Director of Music.
On the day, I enjoyed walking through the beautiful gardens in the glorious sunshine, with my husband, Mark, and listening to the brass bands playing music from some of our favourite films and musicals.
Picture: Provided
We enjoyed our delicious food and drink together, admiring the various glamorous outfits of our fellow guests and catching glimpses of the members of the Royal Family. Our party was hosted by Prince William and Princess Catherine with her very impressive hair style!
It was a wonderful experience and we feel truly grateful to have had this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Bob Gill
I had the honour of being invited to attend His Majesty’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. The invitation was a complete surprise and was in recognition for the initiatives that we have working at our John Lewis Leicester store with local stakeholders on community cohesion and connection, and more recently we have been able to extend this initiative to other John Lewis stores.
Picture: Provided
It truly was a fantastic day – a chance to meet so many other amazing people from all walks of life and a day I will always remember.
Jane Pickard
I felt extremely privileged to be invited to attend the Royal Garden Party on 20th May 2025.
Being recognised for my work as a Registered Nurse for 42 years in the NHS, and more recently at the local hospice, made me feel incredibly proud of both my profession and the organisation I work for. They take great pride in delivering high-quality, specialist palliative and end-of-life care, and I feel honoured to be part of that important mission.
As the palace gates opened, we walked in alongside many others who were being recognised for their work and contributions. The dresses, hats, suits, and uniforms were amazing to see—everyone looked so smart and proud.
Picture: Provided
As the National Anthem played, Prince William and Princess Kate appeared on the palace steps, joined by other members of the Royal Family. It was absolutely spellbinding to stand there with my sister, watching as they spoke with members of the public and enjoyed afternoon tea. It felt surreal—like being part of something truly special and unforgettable.
Guests at Royal Garden Parties are nominated via a wide network including the Lieutenancy, local government, services, and faith groups, ensuring diverse representation.
If you know someone in Leicester or Leicestershire who deserves recognition for going “over and above,” visit: www.leicestershirelieutenancy.org.uk/work-royal-family
