REGINA – Vicky Kangles has the tea set ready.
Her Majesty’s seat is picked out too.
But Kangles isn’t just an enthusiastic monarchist. She has an agenda.
“I thought I’d invite the Queen for tea, and they’ll repave or fix our streets,” she said with a laugh.
The roads in Vicky’s Regina neighbourhood aren’t exactly in tip-top shape.
Kangles says the idea came from an old letter printed in the newspaper, complaining that streets only get repaved when a royal comes to down.
Saskatchewan’s former Chief of Protocol says it’s a good attempt – even if it’s fruitless.
“No, I don’t think our friend can ask a member of the Royal Family to come (in order) to get her street fixed,” said Michael Jackson, who coordinated 10 royal tours for the province over his 25 years of service.
In his experience, Jackson says members of the Royal Family ask people not to go out of their way for them.
“Having said this, like most of us in our own homes, cities, towns and villages like to put their best foot forward.”
It’s happened on a number of occasions, according to Jackson – including construction Regina’s Albert Street in the 1970’s ahead of a visit from Queen Elizabeth II and The Duke of Edinburgh.
Buckingham Palace responded to Kangles within a month, and though the Queen was unable to accept her invidation, she did receive thanks.
“I never even expected a response to the letter, nevermind that she would actually come,” Kangles said.
Just having that letter gives her a unique story to share with family and friends, and if there’s another Royal Family visit on the calendar, Kangles won’t hesitate to invite them for a sip of tea.
Even if it won’t help fix the roads.
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