A TETBURY care home manager was invited to the Coronation and witnessed history being made.
Xyza Macutay-Malloch from Kingsley House Nursing Home was one of the 2,300 people inside Westminster Abbey on Saturday, May 6 joining celebrities, politicians and other community champions.
Ms Macutay-Malloch was awarded a BEM in 2021 for her work protecting residents throughout the coronavirus pandemic and was invited due to her work.
Xyza, known as Xam, initially wondered if her invitation was genuine or a hoax, and she described it as "completely unexpected."
Ms Macutay-Malloch, who arrived at the abbey at 6.30am, not only mingled with royalty but also met TV legends Ant and Dec and received a kiss from American singer Lionel Richie.
“It was a surreal experience and something I will remember for the rest of my life,” she said.
“Receiving the email invite to attend the King's Coronation was unexpected and I had to read the email three times to make sure.
“On the day of the Coronation I stood in the queue, joining around 6.30am until the gate opened at 7am.
“Queuing early meant I was able to get a pretty good seat as it was first come first serve. I was sat by a couple of King Charles' friends.
“There was so much to take in at the Abbey whilst waiting for the ceremony and we were serenaded with beautiful music from the orchestra and choir.
“Meeting Ant and Dec and of course Lionel Richie was an extra bonus! I even got a hug and a kiss from Mr Ritchie!
“I had my very first glimpse of King Charles during the procession and it was spectacular!
“The historical and momentousness of the occasion didn't really sink in until we all chanted God save King Charles and I felt goosebumps.
“It's definitely very different from watching it on TV!
“I was invited because of my BEM, I felt really honoured and blessed.
“I've since been contacted by the Philippine embassy and Philippine journalists.
“I never realised there would be so much interest from the Filipino community both here in the UK and back in the Philippines.
“I feel so humble and proud to represent both of my nations in such a moment of history, and it is a memory I will treasure for the rest of my life.”
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