A Thames Valley Sergeant has recalled the story of when he steered Queen Elizabeth II’s convoy around a mattress on the fast lane of the M4.

Sergeant James Atkinson lead the Special Escort Group since 2017, but his first trip had a bizarre obstacle to it.

“I first escorted Her late Majesty and the late Prince Philip in 2017 from an event at Pangbourne College to Windsor Castle and I was immensely proud.

“I remember that Her late Majesty was travelling in one of her official vehicles, a beautiful Bentley and we were escorting her down some narrow lanes in order to join the M4 motorway.

“This part of the escort went smoothly and it was only when we joined the motorway that I was advised by one of the local police riders that he had passed a mattress/obstacle in the fast lane.

“I managed to navigate the convoy around that and we arrived back at Windsor Castle where both Her late Majesty and the late Prince Philip waved “a thank you” as they entered the castle gates.”

Segreant Atkinson has escorted members of the Royal Family, Ministerial Figures and other VIPs since his early career in the SEG, including coordinating transport for Royal Ascot.

“Each day my team assists with the Royal Carriage procession from Windsor Great Park to the racecourse, past huge crowds of fans and well-wishers.

“The roads are always lined with school children, residents and other visitors all waving flags and cheering.

“As the lead motorcyclist for this event I travel ahead of the carriages thinking how immensely privileged I am to be a part of this.”