Many ladies will remember Alan Jenkins who gave a fascinating talk about terrorism a few years ago.
We were delighted when he offered to come back and tell us about a Royal visit that went wrong! As an Inspector in the Dorset Police Alan was very much at the sharp end for any HRH events in the county.
We learned all about the preparations required for these visits, and just how many spanners a certain (and much respected) Princess Royal could throw into the proverbial works. Alan even employed a tiny toy helicopter to help us envision her ever-changing landing sites – and follow up arrangements. If it was the plot of a comedy movie, I doubt you would believe it.
Happily, and despite some last-minute and very high-speed driving between Yeovilton and Dorchester, the Police on the ground were able (just about) to be in the right place at the right time and Princess Anne was able to wave graciously.
I suspect that this hard-working Royal probably knows exactly what goes on behind the scenes to make sure visits go smoothly (or appear to). Perhaps she should have a word with one of her younger brothers!
Watching the Royals in future will probably never be the same again now that we can imagine all the frantic activity going on just out of sight. We certainly learned and laughed a lot.