The Queen Hosts Tea For Two, Three, Four, Five......
Written by Joanne Leyland
Wednesday, 18 June 2008
When
school’s out, most pupils retreat to the local shops or parks....and even in some instances the pub!
If you’re a
student at the prestigious Eton College, however, the post-classroom recreation in Royal Ascot week is
a little more unique.
After all, how many teenagers find themselves invited to take afternoon tea with Her
Majesty The Queen in Windsor?
Three days after they enjoyed a rather more private afternoon tea with
President and Mr
Bush at nearby Windsor Castle, the Queen and Prince Philip hosted the
annual
Eton tea party for students of the elite school (one which is
affectionately known by the rather less alluring title of 'Slough Comprehensive'
by members of the press).
Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI as 'The King's College of Our Lady of Eton' next to Windsor, the private school numbers Princes William
and Harry, as well as Lord Frederick Windsor, Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer,
and the man who is possibly set to become Britain's next Prime Minister - David Cameron MP - amongst former pupils.
In
1997, Prince William - then just fourteen years old - was amongst
pupils who served cups of tea to the Queen and Queen Elizabeth The
Queen Mother during an event which is a highlight of one of the busiest
weeks of the royal calendar.
Over a decade on, a
new generation of Eton schoolboy was on hand to carry out a similar
duty as the Queen - still wearing the same outfit which brightened an
otherwise limited
fashion parade by the royal ladies on day two of Royal Ascot - entered
the pavilion with Prince Philip.
Unfortunately for the guest of honour, however, the occasion didn't afford Her
Majesty the chance to sit back in her chair and enjoy her afternoon tea.
As you can see, duty called as the Queen left the pavilion to hand
out the prizes
before once again retiring to enjoy the nation's favourite cuppa.
