TWO young fundraising heroes were given their own party at Buckingham Palace hosted by the Queen – after being forced to miss previous royal bashes.
Nine-year-old Tony Hudgell was due to attend a garden party in May but got stuck in a traffic jam on the way, while the invitation for 11-year-old Lyla O’Donovan conflicted with her cancer treatment.
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Tony – whose legs were amputated after horrific childhood abuse – was due to receive his British Empire Medal.
His devastation was clear in a message on X/Twitter, written after he and his adoptive mother Paula Hudgell spent two hours stuck on the M20 because of a lorry fire.
A response on the Royal Family’s X/Twitter page indicated that all was not lost.
They responded, “Sorry to hear that, Tony! We were looking forward to seeing you too. Want to try again another day? Leave that to us.”
Tony, from West Malling, Kent, and Lyla, from Catterick, North Yorks, arrived at Buckingham Palace for their rescheduled treatment last week and were given a front row seat to watch the Changing of the Guard.
Young people and families then enjoyed a private tea with Queen Camilla, 76, in the palace garden. Summer Home.
Camilla also presented Tony with her BEM following his nomination in the 2024 New Year Honours.
Tony, who lost his legs as a baby due to his parents’ cruelty, inspired the nation after going on a 10km walk, raising £1.3 million, at the age of five.
Paula said: “We were all extremely honored and grateful to have been invited to afternoon tea with the Queen. Everyone was so kind and attentive and made us feel comfortable and relaxed.
“Tony talked to the Queen as if they were old friends. She was adorable with him.
“An exceptionally proud moment was when the Queen gave Tony her BEM. It was one of the most memorable days we’ve ever had.”
Lyla raised funds to grant wishes to children affected by cancer or permanent illnesses. She said: “Everyone made us feel so comfortable and made me feel super special. We are very grateful.”
Dad Paul said: “It was an incredible moment for us. Lyla was devastated to have missed the original Garden Party, but said she is glad she missed it now as she will meet the Queen.
“There is no one more important than her, besides the King, of course.”
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