Emotional Moment Unfolds as Domestic Violence Advocates Receive Special Recognition Award
Queen Camilla brought a wave of emotion to the Pride of Britain ceremony with her unexpected appearance, leaving honorees Diana Parkes and Hetti Barkworth-Nanton in tears. The co-founders of a foundation supporting children affected by domestic violence were presented with the Special Recognition Award by the Queen herself, in a touching moment during the ITV1 televised event.
The surprise encounter was orchestrated by the Pride of Britain team, who led Diana and Hetti to believe they were there for a documentary filming. Both women, appointed CBEs in the New Year Honours List, were overcome with emotion as they received the award.
Their partnership began under tragic circumstances, following the 2010 loss of Diana's daughter, who was killed by her estranged husband while her young children hid nearby. Accepting the award, Diana expressed gratitude to the Queen, saying, "Jo at least brought Hetti and I together."
The heartfelt meeting took place at Clarence House earlier this month and will feature in the upcoming documentary, Camilla, Her Majesty The Queen: Behind Closed Doors, airing on November 11. During the encounter, Queen Camilla, 77, admitted, "I'm afraid we did slightly double-cross you by bringing you here," before praising the duo for their dedication to combating violence against women, stating, "Nobody deserves it more than you two."
Diana noted that her story had inspired the Queen's involvement with The Joanna Simpson Foundation and recalled a previous meeting at a SaveLives event. As the ceremony concluded, the Queen presented an envelope containing a letter announcing the award, leaving Hetti to dedicate it to Diana's late daughter, Joanna, saying, "It's really Jo who should be getting the Pride of Britain; in fact, everything is for Jo."
Queen Camilla, currently in Samoa with King Charles on the final days of their royal tour, continues to demonstrate her commitment to charitable causes, making this heartfelt moment at the Pride of Britain ceremony truly unforgettable.
