Published on 12th May 2015

A close up picture of the Mayor's chain

A royal garden party, hosted by the Queen, will be attended by Mayor of Cheltenham Councillor Duncan Smith and guests from his nominated charities.

Every year, the Mayor is invited, together with three guests, to the prestigious party at Buckingham Palace.  On 28 May 2015, Councillor Smith, his wife and guests will enjoy music, tea and cake in the presence of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. 

This year, the mayor has chosen to take a volunteer nominated by each of his two charities; Liz Harvey from Maggie’s Centre and Diana Langstone from Cotswold Riding for the Disabled.

Mayor of Cheltenham, Duncan Smith said:  ‘’I am pleased to be attending the royal garden party with Liz and Diana. I wanted to recognise the incredible work done by volunteers and asked each charity to make a nomination to represent the charity and fellow supporters.

‘’Liz has become an essential part of Maggie’s.  She started fundraising long before the centre was open and over the last 10 years has worked tirelessly to raise money and awareness.

‘’Diana has very personal reasons for supporting Cotswold Riding for the Disabled. Her father, who had helped at another local school passed away the day that planning permission was granted for the new school and so in lieu of flowers, mourners donated to Cotswold Riding for the Disabled.  After this Di joined the committee and has since worked in a variety of roles as a volunteer.

 ‘’It’s a great honour to be attending this high profile event on behalf of Cheltenham and I hope my guests will thoroughly enjoy themselves.’’


For press enquiries contact: Katie Sandey, communications team leader, 01242 775050, [email protected]


For more information about the charities, see Maggie's Centre and Cotswold Riding for the Disabled.