Northern narrowboat is a modest prelude to the Thames flotilla. And we want their flag.
When you've got a socking great ceremonial barge to sail in on the river Thames, you need a bit of practice. Where better than on the Leeds-Liverpool canal in Burnley?
That's what the Queen decided. Maybe she was advised, rather than making up her own mind; but she's always said to want to retire to the Trough of Bowland, should that ever be possible, and to share Alistair Campbell's famous devotion to the Clarets. So I think she decided.
Whatever, Burnley got the full sunshine of the Diamond Jubilee tour of the UK today and the high point was HM and her party standing on the prow of the Pride of Sefton, an excellent childrens' charity narrowboat which chugged her into the Weavers' Triangle. This is the site of more Windsor family involvement. Whatever your views on Royalty and republicanism, Prince Charles' assorted trusts have been very active here.
Six of his charities are involved in regeneration work in the former centre of the world's cotton manufacturing industry (and still the home of the biggest single global outlet for Benedictine; the Burnley Miners and Working Mens Social Club which serves Benny & Hot, the boiling water mixer which saw the Lancashire Fusiliers through the First World War). The Queen did not call in there, given a busy schedule, but she made it to Turf Moor where they gave her a golden ticket, entitling free entry to any Clarets' match.
They like the Royals. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh had a peek at a framed shirt with the sovereign's coat of arms which recalls the 1914 Cup Final when George V became the first reigning monarch to present the trophy. He presented it to Burnley for beating Liverpool 1-0. Four months later, the war began which was to slaughter or maim many of those present.
Burnley has seen very tough times, but retains an energy and optimism which is slowly helping recovery as the Northerner has reported several times in the past year. The Queen added her portion after touring the canalside triangle of former mills, where regeneration aims to create 1000 new private sector jobs and a technical college teaching 14-19-year-olds a traditional curriculum alongside practical engineering and manufacturing skills.
Stepping ashore from her northern barge, she said:
By joining forces with local groups here in Burnley the charities have helped to make a considerable difference to the town and its people. I have no doubt much of this is due to the hard work and commitment of those who selflessly volunteer their time and energy, some of whom are here today.
The leadership and interest of the Prince of Wales has encouraged and enthused communities to come together to improve their neighbourhoods, their towns and cities and their countryside, as well as ensuring that the charities focus on the right areas, such as the quality of the built environment and opportunities for young people.To all those who work so hard to support these admirable goals, I give my thanks.
Meanwhile, the massive southern barge, The Spirit of Chartwell, unveiled details of the mega-flag which will float above the Diamond Jubilee flotilla as it processes along the Thames in London on 3 June. Ten square feet of red velvet emblazoned with more than half a million gold buttons, it it is redolent of the heyday of the mills on both sides of the Pennines. Maybe HM could donate it after the bunfights to the Weavers' Triangle? Read More
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