Published: Friday, 26th June, 2009 12:00pm

Hundreds gather for a Royal Experience

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HUNDREDS of well-wishers turned out in force to witness one of the foremost events in the Royal calendar, writes Gurpreet Samrai.

Applause rang out the grounds of Windsor Castle as The Queen accompanied by The Duke of Edinburgh and other members of the royal family joined a colourful procession as it travelled from the Quadrangle to St George"s Chapel for a service of thanksgiving.

Among the guests, who had travelled from far and wide to watch the procession was Christine Birkhead from Ascot who attended with relatives and friends visiting from France and Canada.

She said: 'It has been a lovely day. This is the third time I have come and I love it. We came early and brought a picnic with us and the weather has been lovely.'

The Order of the Garter, consisting of The Queen and 24 Companion Knights, is the most senior and oldest British Order of Chivalry and, honours those who have held public office, have contributed in a particular way to national life or who have served the sovereign personally.

The ceremony began with the procession of Companions and the Officers of the Order, followed by the service of thanksgiving in St George"s Chapel led by The Dean of Windsor, before The Queen and other members of the royal family travelled back through the Castle on horse and carriage.