Queen Camilla hosts garden party for child fundraisers

Queen Camilla recently hosted a private garden party at Buckingham Palace to honour two child fundraising heroes and their families.

Nine-year-old Tony Hudgell, who lost his legs due to severe abuse from his birth parents, and 11-year-old Lyla O'Donovan, a brain tumour patient, were special guests after missing a formal garden party in May due to traffic and ill-health, respectively.

According to the Daily Express, Tony, the youngest-ever recipient of a New Year Honour for his efforts in preventing child abuse, was thrilled by the invitation. Lyla, from Catterick, North Yorkshire, also joined the festivities. Her father, Paul O'Donovan, expressed their joy, saying, “Lyla was gutted about missing the original garden party, but she said she’s glad she missed it now as she’s got to meet The Queen.”

During the party, Queen Camilla awarded Tony his British Empire Medal (BEM). Tony's adoptive mother, Paula Hudgell, described the experience as “an honour” and “an experience we would never have dreamed of.”

After the Queen's departure, both children received a private tour of the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, making the day even more memorable for the young heroes.