The Queen holds garden party for Tony Hudgell and Lyla O'Donovan

The Queen hosted a garden party in the Buckingham Palace Garden on June 26, 2024, for Tony Hudgell, Lyla O’Donovan, and their families.

Both Tony and Lyla had missed a previous garden party on May 8, 2024, due to reasons like traffic and ill health.

When Tony's family expressed their disappointment on social media, The Royal Family account promptly responded, expressing regret and offering another opportunity for them to attend a future event.

Upon their arrival at Buckingham Palace, the children and their families had the chance to witness the Changing of the Guard before joining Her Majesty for a private tea party in the Summer House within the garden.

A delightful spread of sandwiches, scones, and specially designed iced biscuits were served, accompanied by musical performances by The Rifles Band.

During the gathering, Her Majesty awarded Tony Hudgell with the British Empire Medal (BEM) as recognition for his outstanding contribution to preventing child abuse through the Tony Hudgell Foundation, making him the youngest-ever recipient of the honor.

After the Queen's departure, the children were treated to a private tour of the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace.

Lyla O'Donovan expressed her gratitude for the special treatment they received, while Tony's mother, Paula Hudgell, reflected on the once-in-a-lifetime experience of having tea with the Queen and the proud moment of seeing Tony receive the BEM.

Back to blog