Last Tuesday, via television, I attended a magnificent State Funeral. And I wept.

I wept, as an Englishman, with pride, at the Ceremony, general presentation and the aura of this sad occasion.

I wept, at the passing of a grand lady, whom I feel I have known personally for all my 67 years, like a senior member of my own family. She was not 'over exposed' by the media, but always made enough public appearances to assure us she was still about, and "alive and well and living in Windsor".

I wept, as an Englishman, with millions of our friends from Scotland, Wales and Ireland, and others from around the World, at the way everyone made the effort to go to London "to be there", and many, many more who had even flown in from distant lands, just "to be there".

I wept with emotion when the massed pipes struck up, as she was carried from Westminster Hall, by soldiers who were themselves proud beyond words to be carrying the coffin.

I wept during the service in Westminster Abbey, at the dignity, poise and sadness of the Queen and all her family. She was the best-dressed person in the Abbey.

During the drive to Windsor, I pondered the future for our Royal Family, and the idle gossip of a commentator that more jobs will be shared out around the younger members. I wonder? Why not? Either way, I hope they all stay around and represent us for many years to come.

This country can be immensely proud of our Royal Family, and I hope they don't fade away because of our slide into Europe, or I shall weep again!

As a Frenchman would say "Vive L'Angleterre", or an American "God Bless Britain". I say "God save the Queen".

Stanley D. Parr, Paddock Close, Pershore.