The Queen has long been Britain’s most famous and beloved lady.

Even her more radical subjects grudgingly respect her, especially this remarkable personage’s quiet poise and sense of duty, loyalty and patriotism.

I don’t know what would have become of our country without her.

Britannia no longer rules the waves, for its naval fleet has shrunk dramatically. But Britain’s global influence lives on – mostly due to this unique woman.

Hip!

Queen Elizabeth II has been Head of State of 32 different Commonwealth realms, including Britain, since 1952, and got to know 14 New Zealand Prime Ministers, 12 Australian Prime Ministers and 11 Canadian Prime Ministers.

Overall, she has reigned over 156 Prime Ministers. These include 12 British Prime Ministers – in this regard, Elizabeth II is second only to George III, who had 14.

There have also been twelve US Presidents during her reign, most of them keen to bend the ear of a monarch noted for her wisdom, wealth of experience and common sense.

The majesty of Elizabeth II is, among many other things, reflected in the British cruise ships named after her, or launched by her.

Hip!

Which is partly why thousands of British – and non-British ‘I love Lizbeth’ – cruise ship passengers and crew around the world will celebrate The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee on Sunday 3 June 2012.

There’s really nothing more I can add to the millions of words already written about Elizabeth Windsor’s impressive staying power, hard work, sense of humour, and positive global influence.

She’s simply the best Ambassador Britain has ever seen.

Hurray!

I just want to celebrate, in my own little way, this great icon’s health and life, and raise a toast:

God Speed Elizabeth II, and all the ships that sail for her.

NEWS FLASH

As part of Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee extended weekend celebrations, Cunard’s three ‘Royal’ cruise ships – Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 – will be in Southampton on Tuesday 5 June. Thousands of people are expected in Southampton for the Diamond Jubilee street festival, fireworks and, not least, a display by the Red Arrows, the Royal Air Force Aerobatics Team.

James Leavey

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