The last seven days have been like no others. It came as such a shock when I arrived in parliament last week to hear the news that doctors were concerned for Her Majesty the Queen's health. Of course, she was a woman of 96 years old, but I had assumed she would always be there.
Hers was certainly a life well lived, but with an overriding commitment to her duty. Like many of us she loved the outdoors and was a frequent visitor to Broadlands. The town of Romsey has a firm connection to our Royal family, and I have been struck by how many residents have articulated their encounters with the late Queen.
There was a significant turnout in the memorial park last Sunday for the proclamation of the new King Charles III. It is an interesting juxtaposition, mourning the Monarch we loved and respected, and celebrating the new King at the same time.
I was fortunate to be in Westminster Hall twice this week, first on Monday to hear the address to both houses of Parliament by His Majesty the King and then on Wednesday I was invited to attend the service when the coffin was received in Westminster Hall. The queues of people waiting to pay their respects were waiting so patiently and with such devotion to Her Majesty, it was humbling to see, and I know how privileged I was to be part of it.
