Today's memorial was, in simple words, a brilliant example of what memorials should be about. Held at the Guards Chapel, in Birdcage Walk, it was a fitting memorial for Diana, Princess of Wales. It was moving, emotional and poignant, but devoid of sugar and sentimentality.
The wonderful speech by Prince Harry moved us all to tears. Speaking of his mother, he said 'she was the best mother in the world' and I can really believe that. The young Prince, speaking words he had written himself, was emotional and fought back tears, but one sensed that every word spoken was from the heart and William, who was seated in the front row, next to his grandmother, seemed emotional and lost in thought as his brother spoke about their wonderful mother.
The hymns and music, all were favourites of Diana, were both stiring and emotive. 'I Vow To Thee My Country' Diana's ultimate favourite and the hymn she personaly requested for her wedding in July 1981 brought back memories of the shy, twenty year old, who sang along behind her wedding veil. With Prince Charles seated in the front pew, I did wonder did he think back to that day in July when he stood at the alter of St Pauls Cathedral, next to Lady Diana ready to make their vows?
The congregration, scattered with showbiz personalities such as Elton John, David Frost, Bryan Adams and Cliff Richard, and also with close friends such as Julia Samuel and Rosa Monckton, did not dress in black, but it was still a rather sombre memorial for such a bright, vibrant person who was full of life.
Alot of negative press and publicity has threatened to ruin this memorial but, watching from 11am to 1.15pm, I was enchanted and at times on the verge of tears with the wonderful words spoken. It was a fitting memorial for Diana. Like her, it was modern but also traditional. I cannot say much else except, considering it was for Diana, it was apt and fitting.
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