THE 28th Farnham Lecture, which took place at Farnham Sixth Form College, was a huge success with more than 80 people in attendance and more than £150 raised for Disability Challengers.

The lecture was given by Dickie Arbiter, former press secretary to the Queen, his subject was entitled ‘The British Monarchy – Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’ and it was clear from the start that he was an expert in the subject.

Dr Jason Jones, the director of Farnham Sixth Form College, introduced the speaker, who began with a resume of the English monarchs from the House of Hanover to the current House of Windsor.

Dickie first met Queen Elizabeth at Balmoral, when she took him to a lodge for lunch with the Duke of Edinburgh - he was amazed to find that the Queen did the washing up after the meal.

He accompanied her as she travelled around the world, soon realising she was a much-loved figure not only in the UK but throughout many continents.

Dickie later moved on to the future of the royal family, where he informed members that he was convinced that the Queen will not abdicate and will remain head of the royal family until her passing.

This was her pledge at her Coronation. The structure of the royal family was secure with Prince Charles the successor, followed by William, Duke of Cambridge and now his son George.

Taking questions Dickie explained that the Queen is non-political and does not vote or pass comment on any particular political party – this however, does not apply to all members of the royal family and those who work closely with the Queen.

During his talk Dickie explained that he had a weakness for gaudy neck-ties, similar to the one shown in the photograph on the programme for the lecture.

The, Mayor of Farnham, John Ward, complimented him on the tie and Dickie removed it and presented to him. Almost immediately Brian Williams, organiser of the event, handed over an Old Farnhamian neck-tie to the speaker as a little thank you for a first-class lecture.