Last farewell for Sir Ed
03 Apr 2008
Sir Edmund Hillary has been commemorated by the Queen and other important dignitaries in a memorial service at Windsor Castle near London.
The service, which took place in 500-year-old St George's chapel, was a service of thanksgiving for the life of Sir Ed, but also marked the laying up of his Knight of the Garter banner on the altar.
The Dean of Windsor and Register of the Order of the Garter, David Conner, received Sir Ed's banner from the Military Knights of Windsor and placed it on the altar.
Dean Connor had earlier said the service was not only to commemorate Sir Ed but also to show commitment to the causes dear to him.
"We are not here simply to recall the blessings of the past, but more importantly, and in the spirit of Sir Edmund, to commit ourselves to the future well-being of humanity, praying that we may have strength of purpose and courage to build on the strong foundation he has left for us."
Addresses were made by Peter Hillary and Helen Clark, before performances that included British based New Zealand baritone Jonathon Lemalu and a poignant karanga (tribute in Maori) by Mereana Hond, reportedly the first time Maori had been spoken inside the Church.
In her speech the Prime Minister paid tribute to the human qualities that made Sir Ed so popular amongst New Zealanders.
"We New Zealanders saw Sir Edmund as one of us - from his craggy looks to his love of the outdoors, his sense of adventure and his concerns for others"
Clark described the service as "rare and special".
A Royal spokesperson said the service reflected the high regard Sir Ed was held in by Royals.
Other dignitaries included Princess Anne, Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon and Sir Winston Churchill's daughter Lady Mary Soames.
Following the service Lady June and the rest of Sir Ed's family had a private audience with the Queen.
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