Royal Maundy

Yesterday I helped out at derby Cathedral where HM The Queen distributed the Royal Maundy money at a special service.

84 men and 84 women were honoured to receive these gifts.

Standing so close to The Queen I was reminded at what a truly extraordinary person she is. Her devotion to duty and sense of service really has been an example for many decades now.

To think - she has worked with Prime Ministers from Churchill to Thatcher and indeed Blair and Brown - and she looks amazingly good for her age.

What struck me most yesterday was how much like her mum she is beginning to look.

Britain has a great deal to be thankful for, for this remarkable woman.