Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth walking about Catte Street, Oxford.
The Royals are the most recognized British figures, and the current monarch Queen Elizabeth is the star of the bunch. Her Majesty and Prince Philip graced University College with their presence on Friday 21st May 1999 as part of Univ's 750th anniversary year celebrations. While I couldn't be in college that day, I did manage to get a close-up view of them as they left a church service and did a walk-about for the crowds. It was a sizeable lot, although not nearly as big as might be expected since Univ hadn't advertised the visit too widely. Her Majesty got all of the adulation while the Duke of Edinburgh trailed behind in virtual anonymity.
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His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in Oxford. |
About a month later, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan came to speak at the Sheldonian Theatre. While I couldn't get a ticket to see the event, I did get to see the man as he arrived at the theatre, duly pausing for the photographers before entering.
My sighting of Tony Blair, British Prime Minister, was almost accidental. I was wandering into the city centre to do some shopping when happened upon a police blockade outside the Randolph Hotel. A huge convoy soon departed, but as the blockade did not come down immediately I smelled a rat and dawdled a little longer. My patience was rewarded as the PM came out and with a quick wave to the remaining crowd hopped into a waiting car. Unfortunately I did not have my camera, so no pictures.
My favourite cinemas in Oxford are
When I feel so inclined, I get my (mostly cricket) news from
Some of the musical talent to which I listen is
Some of the teams which I cheer for from afar are