Capital ceremony for Annan’s Joyce

Joyce Wylie and her family have returned from the capital with her British Citizen Award (BCA), and memories of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Reflecting on the events of last week, 72-year-old Joyce said: “If felt weird for me to be there.
“I’m usually watching other people.
“But I had a great time, and a great experience.”
The chairwoman of the Royal Burgh of Annan Community Council added: “The whole family loved it too, and I’m really pleased that the family were with me.”
Long-time community stalwart Joyce, husband George, their two sons, two daughters, daughter-in-law and grandson Joe travelled down last Wednesday, staying at the Georgian Hotel in Westminster.
“On Thursday morning we went and walked through Hyde Park to Buckingham Palace and watched the Changing of the Guard,” she said. “Then we got ready for the reception.”
The champagne reception took place at the Palace of Westminster, which is otherwise known as the Houses of Parliament.
Eastenders actor Larry Lamb served as host, with the medals themselves presented by Lord Dholakia.
Buses then took the 33 medal winners in a lap of honour around London, before arriving at Church House for another reception.
Certificates were presented as well as a scroll from Sarah, Duchess of York, who delivered a video message.
The following day, Joyce and her family were given a tour of the Houses of Parliament by Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell.
Joyce said: “”I was amazed by the size of the place, and all the history that had happened in Westminster Hall, like the trial of William Wallace.”