Superstar Basildon voluntary worker Laura Armstrong travelled in style to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace.

Mrs Armstrong was picked up from her home in Ballards Walk by a limousine and whisked off to London for an evening reception with hundreds of other voluntary workers.

The 73-year-old widow began voluntary work ten years ago after retiring as a full-time carer.

She said: "To be invited to see the Queen was wonderful. I didn't actually get to speak to her but she looked over and smiled at me. I could have touched her but I didn't dare."

Mrs Armstrong was invited because of the huge contribution she has made to voluntary work as chairman of the Basildon branch of Carers National, treasurer of the local Alzheimer's support group, and as an advisory member of the Princess Royal Trust at Basildon and Castle Point carers centre.

She took up voluntary work because of the friends she had made over the years.

Mrs Armstrong said: "I have made so many lovely friends and met so many lovely people that I wanted to continue helping out."

She revealed she had seen the inside of Buckingham Palace before - but only as a tourist. This time was much better, she added.

"Prince Edward and Sophie were there and I even spoke to Princess Alexandra. It was a wonderful evening and to be driven there and back in a limousine was so nice. I felt like Lady you-know-what."

The transport was laid on by Dave Seaman of Chauffeur Services in Chelmsford.

Travelling in style - Laura Armstrong is picked up by Chauffeur Dave Seaman on he way to Buckingham Palace

Picture: ROBIN WOOSEY

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