CAMPAIGNERS and fundraisers for Longfield were honoured for their tireless volunteering for the hospice with an invite to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on May 22 in the lead up to National Volunteers’ Week (June 1-7).

Barbara Ball from the Tetbury Supporter Group was one of the invited guests from more than 400 charities to the special 70th birthday party thrown by the Queen for the Prince of Wales in the gardens of Buckingham Palace, celebrating the work of the Prince’s patronages, charities and military affiliations and others involved in public service.

Barbara was chosen by Longfield along with women from four other local Supporter Groups, including Elaine Harris, Cirencester Supporter Group.

The groups hold fundraising events such as fashion shows, coffee mornings, film nights, quiz nights, open gardens, luncheons with speakers, Christmas and craft fairs, raising significant funds for Longfield each year.

Barbara, 87, has been involved with Longfield for many years and as well as fundraising with the Tetbury Supporters Group visits the hospice in Minchinhampton one day a week. "There is a fantastic atmosphere at the hospice. It is so special and it is one of the favourite charities of Prince Charles," she explained.

On the day of the garden party, the five women travelled down together from the Longfield. Barbara said: "The weather was gorgeous. Several marquees were set up with tea in the beautiful gardens at Buckingham Palace.

"Prince Harry was there with Meghan and made a speech at the start about his father for his birthday. I was one of the lucky ones to speak to Prince Charles and Camilla. He is so interested in what we do. I have seen him before when he visits the hospice and he is so natural with everyone there."

Barbara added: "It was such a memorable day. I was so thrilled to be asked."