An experience which few people, if any, in this part of the country have ever had, or are likely to get, has just been enjoyed by Mrs. Clayson, of West-street, Rushden. She has been spending Christmas with her son, Sergt. Thos. Clayson, who is Sergeant-in-Charge at Sandringham House. On Christmas Day she attended divine service aty the parish church, among the worshippers being the King and Queen and the whole of the Royal Party.
Interviewed by a representative of the “Rushden Echo,” Mrs. Clayson said the service was a very simple and impressive one, and she was struck with the great heartiness with which the King and Queen joined in the singing of the Christmas carols, one of the favourites evidently being “O come all ye faithful.” The church, she said, was very beautifully decorated with evergreens and flowers. When the offertory was taken the gifts of the Royal Family were received in common with the “widow’s mite.”
Mrs. Clayson also had the privilege of attending the Christmas tree in the ball-room at Sandringham House on January 2nd. The King opened the festivities himself by handing to the guests some of the presents, and he was assisted by the Queen, the Duchess of Albany, the Prince and princess of Wales and their children, all the members of the Royal party entering heartily into the proveedings. There were useful presents for every one on the Estate. The gathering commenced at 10p.m. and concluded at 12 o’clock, the Royal party coming in just after dinner. The Christmas tree was illuminated with electric light, which is made on the premises. Light refreshments were handed round.
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