Her Majesty joined Prince Charles for the small ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday, where the chief executives of NHS England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland were awarded their medals. Looking relaxed and assisted by a walking stick, the 96-year-old also spoke to May Parsons, the nurse who administered the world’s first COVID vaccine to Margaret Keenan at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire on December 8, 2020. When told of Mrs Parson’s historic achievement, she made all her guests laugh, joking: “Are you still alive?” Mrs Parsons responded by saying: “We’re terribly, terribly proud of the vaccination launch, it’s been such a success,” to which Her Majesty replied: “Yes, it’s been amazing.” Frontline workers from all four nations were allowed to attend the ceremony as a reward for their efforts to vaccinate the country. Image: NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard (left) with Coventry nurse May Parsons The Queen continued in good humour, asking NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard what she planned to do with her medal. Ms Pritchard said she would go on an NHS tour before finding a permanent home. Image: Her Majesty meets Sister Joanna Hogg of the Royal Victoria Hospital A&E Image: The Queen shakes hands with palliative care nurse Eleanor Grant Lieutenant-Colonel Michael Vernon, Superintendent of the Lord Chamberlain’s Office, read the George Cross citation, adding: “It is with great pleasure, on behalf of a grateful nation, that the George Cross is awarded to the UK’s National Health Service. “This award recognizes all NHS staff, past and present, across all branches and across four nations. “For more than seven decades, and especially in recent times, you have supported the people of our country with courage, compassion and dedication, demonstrating the highest standards of public service. You have our lasting thanks and heartfelt appreciation.” Image: The Queen and NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard Chris Whitty was knighted Earlier on Tuesday, England’s chief medical officer, Sir Chris Whitty, was among those to receive one of the Queen’s honours. Sir Chris did not attend his investiture in person, but was knighted in the New Year this year. Olympian Tom Daley received an OBE for services to LGBTQ+ rights, while consumer expert Martin Lewis received a CBE for services to broadcasting and consumer rights.
