A local pensioner is still "walking on air" after attending a Royal garden party at Buckingham Palace.
Freda Smith, aged 79, of Snatchwood Road, Abersychan, was invited to attend the party in recognition of her years of service to the Salvation Army.
Mrs Smith, who turns 80 in October, said she "couldn't believe it" when she received her invitation in the post.
She said: "When I picked the card up off the floor I saw it said Buckingham Palace and the Lord Chancellor and I thought what on earth are they writing to me for?
"I never expected anything like this in my life."
Mrs Smith said the day was organised with military precision and guests were entertained with music from two bands.
She continued: "We had an excellent view of the Queen as she walked from the palace down onto the green."
Mrs Smith described the party as a wonderful experience and paid tribute to all the members of the Abersychan corps, saying she would not have achieved everything she has without their support.
"The party was something I would not have wanted to miss. I was very fortunate. I don't think my feet have touched the ground yet," she laughed.
First published on the Free Press| website
