Wednesday 14 September 2022 01:38 AM DAILY MAIL COMMENT: No second chance for this greatest farewell trends now
A homecoming, but the most sorrowful sort. Under shroud-black skies last night, the Queen arrived at Buckingham Palace for the final time.
Her flag-draped coffin was met by grieving members of the Royal Family – led by King Charles III and the Queen Consort – who will mourn privately. Such a source of stability, comfort and continuity for the nation for so many years, it is still scarcely believable she is no longer in our presence.
Scarcely believable, too, that a few short weeks ago thrilled crowds packed into the Mall to cheer her appearance on the palace balcony to mark her Platinum Jubilee.
What a poignant contrast to today, when solemn well-wishers will line London’s streets as her coffin is transported to Westminster Hall, for four days’ lying in state.
A homecoming, but the most sorrowful sort. Under shroud-black skies last night, the Queen arrived at Buckingham Palace for the final time
However, there are grave fears the Government and authorities (not, we hasten to add, the Palace) have failed to plan adequately for the huge public desire to salute the much-loved sovereign in person.
People, having flocked from across the kingdom, face 35-hour queues to file past her coffin. Logistics suggest only 400,000 will do so – with millions left bitterly disappointed.
But man has landed on the Moon, for goodness’ sake. It shouldn’t be beyond the wit of ministers and officials to find a common sense solution. What about extending the funeral route, to ease the immense strain?
As Robert Hardman writes today, this is to be the greatest collective farewell of our lifetimes. We won’t get a second chance.
People, having flocked from across the kingdom, face 35-hour queues to file past her coffin. Logistics suggest
