LOCAL Senedd Members have been in royal company recently, with Claire Archibald shaking the king’s hand and Paul Davies talking with the queen about Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

Their Majesties The King and Queen visited the Senedd in Cardiff Bay on Thursday, October 15, for the ceremonial opening of the Seventh Senedd, marking the beginning of a new parliamentary term following the Senedd elections.

The occasion brought together Members of the Senedd, invited guests and dignitaries to celebrate Welsh democracy, with the king formally opening the new parliamentary term.

“What an unforgettable day at the opening of the seventh Senedd,” said Reform MS Claire Archibald. “An honour to meet the king and queen, shake His Majesty’s hand and share a few words a slightly surreal moment!

“Having watched the pomp and ceremony on television for years, today I had the privilege of being part of it. Wonderful to see politicians from across the parties come together for such a special occasion. I feel very honoured.”

Conservative Senedd Member Paul Davies flew the flag for Ceredigion Penfro when he met Her Majesty The Queen during the ceremonial opening of the Senedd.

During the visit, Mr Davies took the opportunity to talk to the queen about Ceredigion Penfro, highlighting the area's stunning coastline, countryside, rich heritage and thriving communities.

Paul Davies MS said: “It's not every day you get to talk to the queen, so of course I took the opportunity to put Ceredigion Penfro on the map!

“I'm always happy to fly the flag for our corner of Wales, and it was a real pleasure to share a little of what makes it so special with Her Majesty.

“The ceremonial opening is an important occasion for Welsh democracy, and it was a privilege to be part of it and welcome their majesties to the Senedd.”