Surrey woman queues to see Queen's coffin

Grace Gothard is third in the line by Lambeth Bridge

Grace Gothard previously visited Buckingham Palace the day after The Queen's death
Author: Sharon PlummerPublished 13th Sep 2022
Last updated 13th Sep 2022

A woman from Surrey is third in the queue to see Queen Elizabeth II's coffin when it lies in state this week.

Grace Gothard from Mitcham joined the line by Lambeth Bridge - with no tent, sleeping bag or coat.

Ms Gothard had a Union flag draped around her neck and was carrying a cardboard cutout of the Queen and some marmalade.

She told reporters:

"The Queen was everyone's mother, she protected the Commonwealth and made sure everyone is protected.

"I've been to royal events in the past, weddings and funerals, and I was so upset when I found out about this, so I wanted to see her coffin.

"I think Charles will be a good king, he has his mother's traits."

Ms Gothard also visited Buckingham Palace to pay her respects the day after Her Late Majesty died.

As of 11am on Tuesday (12 September), there were eight people in the queue by Lambeth Palace in London waiting to pay their respects to the Queen.

More than a day before the Queen's lying in state begins at Westminster Hall, mourners had already begun to line the banks of the River Thames opposite the Palace of Westminster.

Portaloos were provided for those queuing overnight.

Stewards in hi-vis jackets and police officers outnumbered those in the queue on a cloudy morning in central London.

Several of those in the queue were wearing clothing featuring the Union flag.

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