A special flower arrangement by Ethos Flowers of Brindleyplace has been laid in London’s Green Park in remembrance of Queen Elizabeth II on behalf of all Westside BID businesses.
Mike Olley, general manager of Westside BID, travelled down to the capital and queued for more than two hours before carefully placing the floral tribute.
You can watch the floral tribute being laid here:
Mr Olley said: “We felt it was important for Westside BID to pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who meant so much to the district, wider Birmingham and the whole nation.
“There was more than two hours of queueing, but it was such a delightful way to queue and, indeed, I didn’t even realise I was in a queue, because everyone was so patient and peaceful.
“We all walked up Birdcage Walk which slowed down just before we crossed the front of Buckingham Palace at a snail’s pace into Green Park, with the tribute garden towards the Piccadilly side of the park.
“On reflection I realise that on behalf of Westside BID I was part of something very special. We British do this kind of thing in such a delightful manner. There was a very relaxed yet a very clear undercurrent of organisation all unwittingly going on around you.
“The tribute area in Green Park is informal, so relaxing and so poignant. It is such a wonderful, idyllic location that offers a real sense of meaning and serenity.
“There were Samaritans there just offering a smile and comfort to those who wanted it, which was a lovely touch. It made me feel very proud of my nation, my sovereign and our way of life.”
A message placed with the Westside BID floral tribute read:
‘From the Westside business community. Our dear Queen Elizabeth II. We remember our sovereign with warmth and affection. Enormously proud of her reign. Long live the King.’
