HUNDREDS of schoolchildren had a day to remember in November 1997 when the Queen dropped by on a royal visit.
The Queen made the official visit on November 8, 1997, almost precisely 26 years since she last made an appearance in the town.
Looking radiant in a vermilion coat and matching deepcrowned hat, the Queen was greeted with cheers and applause when she arrived at the rail station.
She then took her black Rolls Royce to Gorse Hill Infants’ School to be greeted by 200 children waving flags and cheering.
She made her way into the town centre where an estimated 2,000 where waiting at the Brunel Plaza to cheer their Queen.
It was then the turn of fouryear- old cerebral palsy sufferer Jamie White to present the Queen with a posy of flowers.
The crowd erupted with cheers as little Jamie handed over his gift.
The Queen was joined by Swindon Borough Council leader Sue Bates and chief executive Paul Doherty.
As she walked around the Plaza, she took time to speak to members of the Shopmobility scheme in the town.
Her final act was to unveil a special plaque set in a stone in Wharf Green to commemorate the visit.
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