A brave five-year-old living with a rare genetic disorder had a day to remember after meeting The Queen.
Grace Howes receives care from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) at The Nook but was put forward for the special visit by her nurse specialist, Katrina Cousins, from Addenbrooke’s Hospital, in Cambridge.
It led to her being nominated by the Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity and having the opportunity to go to Clarence House, along with mum Rebecca.
Among many highlights during the annual party, Grace, who has type one Spinal Muscular Atrophy, helped decorate the royal Christmas tree, gave The Queen a card she had made at school, met Santa Claus and also got to see two of his reindeer, Dancer and Blitzen.
“It was incredible and a very magical, unforgettable experience,” said Rebecca, who lives in Old Catton, near Norwich.
“Grace also asked if Father Christmas had received her letter and The Queen assured her he had, saying ‘he always does’.”
Throughout their visit, the children were serenaded with Christmas carols performed by the Band and Bugles of The Rifles.