RAF veteran makes Watford LGBTQ+ wreath history

As part of his RAF duties, Mr Timberlake stood guard at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953 and had to walk from Hyde Park to the Haymarket.

“We were the first people saw, camping along the road all night to get a good spot,” he said.

“Everyone stood up and cheered and waved and it was really exciting.”

After returning to civilian life, he had a “diverse” career, including working for fashion retailer Austin Reed Boots and running a café in Clacton and a guesthouse in Blackpool.

She spent most of her life performing drag shows under the name Tina Lake, but hung up her crown at the age of 85.

“This stems from childhood because my parents used to throw big parties, so dressing up was just another part of life for me,” she said.

Proud Watford, which supports the town’s gay community, said the group was honored to be represented at the memorial.

“This will be the first time Watford will pay special tribute to LGBTQ+ people who defended and died for our country,” the statement said.