Stray Views is a weekly column giving you the chance to have your say on issues affecting the Harrogate district. It is an opinion column and does not reflect the views of the Stray Ferret. Send your views to letters@thestrayferret.co.uk. This Sunday you sent us your thoughts on the death of Her Majesty the Queen.

---

I worked for Taylor's and Betty's and had been off work with a very bad shoulder but I was invited to a special day at the Parliament Street café to meet the Prince Charles, now the King.

I and all in attendance on that day felt and feel so privileged to have shaken his hand and have a chat. When asked what I did , saying I worked at the Taylor's part of the business and that we try to make the best cup of tea, he gave me a big pat on my shoulder and I winced.

I still suffer with pain but that is not from the royal pat but now old age.

Long live my King.

Terence Mason, Harrogate

---

My husband, Richard, and I are on holiday in Alassio, Italy and were in a gin bar when we heard the dreaded news that the Queen had so very sadly died. We were both in tears.

Today we found a hand written letter from the manager of our hotel, The Grand Hotel Alassio, expressing his deepest condolences to the Royal Family, Governments and all citizens of the UK and Commonwealth countries.

He also said the profound dignity for which she held office for such a long period has been an increasing source of admiration for generations. We were so very touched that our lovely monarch meant much to people of other countries and cried again.

JoJo Haytet, Harrogate

---

Read More: 

• Column: The Herculean responsibility of inheriting a role at a young age


• Column: I discovered the close personal interest Charles takes in those charities he is involved with

---