Royal aides successfully get Queen to memorial service in move that may form blueprint for Platinum Jubilee
ROYAL aides successfully pulled off Operation Abbey to get the Queen to the memorial service — in a move that may form a blueprint for the Platinum Jubilee.
Plans were launched when Her Majesty cancelled her appearance at the Commonwealth Day service two weeks ago amid concerns over her “comfort”.
She has been suffering mobility issues which have dogged her since last summer.
Officials considered flying the Queen in the Royal Helicopter but instead she was driven in the back of a Land Rover for the 23 miles from Windsor Castle to Buckingham Palace.
She was transferred into her Bentley State Limousine with Prince Andrew while carrying her walking stick.
They were driven two miles to the back entrance or eastern side of the Abbey at the Henry VII Lady Chapel.
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It was decided she could not enter through the main Great West Door as it was too far to walk to her position over steps and cobbles.
Andrew helped her out of the bomb-proof vehicle, through a door at Poets’ Corner and to her front-row seat next to Prince Charles.
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She took the same route out of the Abbey — avoiding all obstructions — and then went straight back to Windsor.
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The Queen is expected to be at her four-day Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June in London and the Epsom Derby.
Aides will be confident similar plans can be used for these events.