Stromness pupils “feeling famous” after getting Royal reply!

Stromness Primary School pupils who wrote sympathy letters and messages of support to King Charles III after reflecting on the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II – are delighted after receiving a reply from Buckingham Palace.

The P4/5 class say it’s like “Christmas come early” after the Royal delivery this week.

Teacher, Joanna Tulloch, said: “The class have been incredibly engaged and interested in recent Royal events, from the Platinum Jubilee to the sad passing of the Queen, the funeral itself and King Charles taking over from his mother.

“They are absolutely delighted to have received a response, particularly one from Buckingham Palace. It has genuinely made their year and what a special early Christmas present for them all!”

The letter states: “The King has asked me to thank you for your letters, and for the very kind messages you sent following the death of his beloved mother, The Queen.

“The King is most grateful to you for taking the trouble to write as you did; he was particularly touched by your thoughtful words of support and to know how much you enjoyed your whole school celebrations earlier in the year, marking the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

“His Majesty greatly appreciates the care you have taken with your letters and has asked me to send you his warmest thanks and very best wishes.”

Here’s what some of the pupils had to say:

"It was really exciting.  It was unexpected because we didn't know if we were going to get a reply” - Ivy

"Nobody could hold in their excitement - everyone started jumping up and screaming! We felt really special when we read it as not everyone gets a personal letter from Buckingham Palace" - Meryl 

"The envelope and paper were so thick!" Luana 

"It was shocking and amazing! It's made us feel really special" - Oscar 

"It was very exciting" - Ajay 

"It's a privilege - we feel special!" - Emily 

Read more on the background to this story in our previous news article.