“She had such presence – when we were standing next to her, singing the national anthem, we were completely overwhelmed, with tears running down our faces.”

Garry Perry, Associate Director – Patient Relations & Experience for Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, has met the Queen on three occasions, with his most memorable encounter happening when he was Mayor of Walsall in 2011.

He and Mayoress June Perry, his late mother, were attending the Queen’s Garden Party that year in recognition of services to the community.

“We felt so privileged to be asked and were so proud and excited to be at Buckingham Palace,” Garry said.

“I remember the Queen was wearing lilac that day and I can honestly say nothing really prepares you for how you’re going to feel upon seeing our Monarch. Mum and I were singing the national anthem with tears running down our faces. She was standing next to us and we were completely overwhelmed.

“Mum brought us back down to earth a little later when she took her shoes off in Buckingham Palace because they were hurting her and we noticed others started to do the same, possibly thinking it was protocol!  Bless her!”

Upon hearing of the Queen’s death Garry added: “We will never know anyone quite like her again. She was an outstanding example of someone who has truly dedicated their life to their country and exemplifies dedication, community, integrity and responsibility. Her loss will be felt all over the world as there are so many people with their own special memories of her. Our thoughts and prayers go to her family and to communities at home and abroad at this time.”