Sherborne Platinum Skies homeowner recall memories of the Queen ahead of Platinum Jubilee

A homeowner in our Sherborne community has shared his memories of the Queen ahead of next month’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Memories of The Queen in her Platinum Jubilee year

Canon Dr Alan Kerbey OBE, who lives in Canon Woods Close, recalls a number of occasions when he has met members of the Royal family, including Her Majesty The Queen. In recognition of his work in medical research at Oxford University, and subsequently in education and work with young people, Alan was awarded an OBE in 2012 which he received from the Prince of Wales at an investiture at Buckingham Palace. Prior to this, he met the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh when he was involved in organising a Royal visit to Cambridge University to mark the 650^th anniversary of the foundation of Trinity Hall in 1350, the university’s seventh-oldest college. Dr Kerbey had lunch with the Royal couple and escorted them on a tour of the College grounds.

He recalls: “It was a huge privilege to be involved not just in organising a Royal visit but spending time with the Queen and Prince Philip, and other distinguished guests, which included former Chancellor of the Exchequer, Lord Geoffrey Howe, astrophysicist, Professor Stephen Hawking, and former Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Runcie.”

Meeting the Queen again

Three years ago, Alan was invited back to Buckingham Palace for a private tour by the Master of the Royal Household, a close friend. This was during a major programme of refurbishment that the Palace was undergoing.

Alan recalls: “It was fascinating to walk through rooms and along corridors, and see priceless works of art being carefully removed and taken away for safe storage.” He goes on: “It also happened to be the occasion of the Prince of Wales 70^th birthday party and preparations were underway for a grand dinner in the ballroom that evening, which included the performance of a short play. It was slightly surreal to walk past Dame Judi Dench and Sir Kenneth Branagh as they were rehearsing!”

In his capacity as a Lay Canon and member of the Chapter of Wells Cathedral, Alan has also met Prince Edward and the Duke of Gloucester. Later this year, he is attending a dinner at Windsor Castle.

Jubilee celebrations at our Sherborne community

Our Sherborne Platinum Skies community will be taking part in special events to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations including hosting a party and enjoying live music.

For more information about taking a tour of one of our Platinum Skies communities, speak to our team on 01202 040996.