It was a shocking and appalling act of violence that has left the nation stunned. In a move of defiance against the two men suspected of committing the atrocity on the streets of Woolwich on Wednesday, the Queen has vowed that her visit to the Woolwich barracks will go ahead as planned.The monarch, 87, was said to have been greatly concerned by the apparent act of terrorism on the soldier, who was named on Thursday as Drummer Lee Rigby of 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. However, royal representatives have insisted that she has no plans to cancel her visit to the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich, south east London on 31 May.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe mounted unit, which relocated to Woolwich in February 2012, was created by the Queen's father, George VI, and often takes part in state ceremonies.Its duties include firing royal salutes on major anniversaries, as well as providing a gun carriage and horses for state and military funerals.Buckingham Palace said that the Queen was being kept up-to-date with developments in Woolwich. The news broke on Wednesday afternoon while she was preparing to host her summer garden party at Buckingham Palace.On Thursday, the Queen and Prince Philip were greeted by crowds as they arrived at Cambridge train station. Wearing a pink coat and hat, the monarch and her husband received a very warm welcome from the crowds, who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the royals.They presented her with bouquets of beautiful spring flowers before she boarded a guided bus with the Duke of Edinburgh for a short ride.
© Photo: PAMick Capper, a guided bus driver charged with driving the royal party, said shortly before the visit that it would be the "climax of my career"."I don't think it gets any better than driving the Queen," he said. "My wife got up and dressed me so I looked the part. "He said that if the Queen and Prince Philip asked about the guided bus he would happily explain how they worked. "I will treat them both as I would like my wife treated," he said.
Later, the royals will meet with staff at the Rosie Maternity Hospital and unveil a plaque to commemorate their visit.
