The Queen will visit the Royal Air Force Club to mark its centenary year
Wednesday 17th October
Her Majesty The Queen, Patron, Royal Air Force Club, will undertake a visit to the Club to mark its centenary year. During the visit, Her Majesty will officially open its new wing and unveil a series of newly-commissioned artworks.
The Queen will tour and formally open the newly added wing, which houses amenities including a fitness suite and business centre, before meeting long-serving RAF Club staff.
Following the tour, The Queen will unveil a new stained-glass window in the Club, designed to commemorate women in the Royal Air Force. The new artwork has been created by artist and designer Helen Whittaker, and aims to highlight the development of female roles in the RAF over its 100 years. Her Majesty will have the opportunity to speak with female representatives from the RAF.
Finally, The Queen will unveil a new portrait depicting Her Majesty earlier this year. Painted by BP Portrait Award 2017 winner, Benjamin Sullivan, the portrait was commissioned to celebrate 100 years of the RAF Club.
The RAF Club was founded in 1918 and formally opened its doors in 1922. On 12th March 1922, the Club was visited by Their Majesties King George V and Queen Mary. The Club is open to former and serving officers of the Royal Air Force. The Queen has been Patron of the Club since 1952 and last visited its premises in 2012.