Charles praises "darling mama"
Charles praises "darling mama"
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Friday, 21, Apr 2006 09:32
Prince Charles has used the occasion of the Queen's 80th birthday to praise the "steadfastness and fortitude" of his "darling Mama".
In a birthday message broadcast to the nation on radio and television the heir to the throne described his mother's "wonderful qualities" after expressing the "enormous pride" he felt at being given the opportunity to address the country.
His message was notable for its striking personal recollections, including his mother tucking him into bed while practicing wearing her crown prior to the coronation and long telephone conversations with his parents during overseas visits.
"I remember so well, too, the excitement of being reunited with our parents when my sister and I sailed out in the then brand new Royal Yacht Britannia to meet them off Tobruk at the end of their Commonwealth Coronation Tour in 1954 - a tour that had lasted over six months and taken in 13 countries," Prince Charles said.
Assuming a more serious tone he referred to the Queen's remarkable record of consistency as a "figure of reassuring calm and dependability" in a constantly changing "bewildering" world.
"For very nearly 60 of those 80 years she has been my darling Mama and my sentiments today are those of a proud and loving son who hopes that you will join with me in wishing the Queen the happiest of happy birthdays, together with the fervent prayer that there will be countless memorable returns of the day," he concluded, finishing with a smile.
After the broadcast of the Prince's address, the Queen, having spent the day in Windsor Castle, traveled to Kew Palace to enjoy a birthday dinner with her extended family.