Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II opened the Docklands Light Railway in 1987 when the working population of the area was sparse and certainly not welcomed by the locals, who referred to us as Yuppies.Our offices at Sugar Quay Wharf were combed thoroughly by the Royal Security Staff ahead of Her Majesty's arrival. The 'to be ignored' working dogs sniffed around the newsdesks, whipping us with their wagging tails as they eagerly obeyed commands.
As Her Majesty arrived, she was warmly welcomed by representatives who escorted her around our offices, finishing in the newsroom where many a fast-breaking news story would erupt unannounced.
With my thoughts on a newspiece deadline, I took a photograph of Her Majesty as she walked behind my boss who was also working at his desk ~ an event he often recalled whilst smiling contentedly, as he had considered the result worthy of a front page splash. Great boss whom I remember fondly.
Equerries to Her Majesty mingled amongst us and engaged in conversations about our work and Docklands itself. Most impressive.
We watched excitedly from our office windows as the unmanned train pulled out of Sugar Quay Wharf with Her Majesty on board and then, held our breath, as it slowed and stopped, momentarily, before pulling away rather unceremoniously towards the end of the journey. All is well that ends well.
Hundreds of shops, waterside bars and restaurants await your pleasure here, right now, in our dear Blighty.
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