SANDFORD was represented at a Choral Evensong at Exeter Cathedral to celebrate the 90th Birthday of Her Majesty The Queen on April 21.

The service, hosted by David Fursdon, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for Devon, saw a number of guests invited along.

Sandford was represented by Parish Clerk Malcolm Vallance and Mrs Margaret Phillips who had an opportunity to meet the Lord Lieutenant and speak about the forthcoming Sandford Parish celebrations on June 11 and 12.

The Cathedral Choir, directed by Timothy Noon, opened the Service with music composed by William Byrd for Queen Elizabeth I, setting the text “O Lord, make thy servant Elizabeth our Queen to rejoice in thy strength”.

The Anthem the choir sang was Hubert Parry’s “I was glad” which was sung at the Coronation for Queen Elizabeth II, including the stirring responses “Vivat Regina! Vivat Regina Elizabetha! Vivat”.

In a tribute to the Queen, Mr Fursdon, said: “On behalf of the people of Devon, I would like to send you our warmest congratulations on your 90th birthday and to thank you for all that you have done for us in Devon and in the country.

“You have brought such warmth into so many of our lives. Many happy returns.”

He added: “Your Majesty…you have set us an unparalleled example with your dedication and service to others.”

Fundraising towards the village celebrations in Sandford has already started with a Village Quiz that raised £300.

The next event will be Choral Evensong, with Exeter Cathedral Choir, at St Swithun’s Church at 6.30pm on Sunday, May 22, which will also use music used at the Queen’s Coronation in 1953.

Alan Quick