Picture this: a young boy, full of excitement, all set to attend a grand garden party at Buckingham Palace, only to be thwarted by the villainous traffic on the M20. Tragic, isn’t it? But fret not, for our story has a royally delightful twist.
From Traffic Tribulations to Tea with Royalty
Meet Tony Hudgell, a spirited 9-year-old, who was supposed to rendezvous with royals for a grand garden gala. However, due to dastardly traffic, he found himself stuck in a car and missing out on the event. As he and his family faced the frustrating gridlock, Tony’s mother, Paula Hudgell, voiced their woes on social media, lamenting their misfortune.
But good things come to those who wait – and to those who have a bit of luck and royal sympathy on their side. The royal family’s social media account responded with a heartfelt invitation to try again another day. Not one to pass up a second chance, Tony and his family recently got to experience a day straight out of a fairy tale.
An Afternoon Like No Other
On a much-anticipated Wednesday, Tony, who is a double amputee, was whisked away to Buckingham Palace for a rescheduled meeting with none other than Queen Camilla herself. Joining him on this splendid occasion were Lyla O’Donovan, 12, and her family. Both families were treated to a private viewing of the Changing of the Guard – a quintessentially British spectacle.
After the guard ceremony, they made their way to the Summer House in the palace gardens for an intimate and delightful afternoon tea with Queen Camilla. But the royal treatment didn’t stop there – the families were then taken on a private tour of The Royal Mews, the beautiful stables housing the royal horses and carriages.
A Medal and Memories to Cherish
As if tea with the Queen weren’t enough, Tony was awarded the prestigious British Empire Medal (BEM) by Queen Camilla herself. The young boy, who co-founded the Tony Hudgell Foundation, received the honor in recognition of his incredible efforts and contribution. To say his family was proud would be a royal understatement.
