Sarah Clarke (Black Rod)
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Dame Sarah Davina Clarke is a British administrator. From 13 February 2018 to 8 July 2025, she served as Black Rod, the first female Black Rod in the 650-year history of the role. During her tenure, t
Clarke in 2019
In procession from the Commons to the Lords chamber for the 2019 Queen's Speech
State Opening of Parliament
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The State Opening of Parliament is a ceremonial event which formally marks the beginning of each session of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. At its core is the Monarch's "gracious speech from the
Sarah Clarke (Black Rod)
…in the day-to-day running of the House's sittings. In addition, she was responsible for the organisation and delivery of ceremonial events, such as State Opening and state visits to Westminster and for the daily administration of the King's residual estate in the Palace of Westminster including the Chapel of St…
The 2024 State Opening of Parliament.
The Palace of Westminster is home of the two houses of the British Parliament, and it is to here that the monarch travels to open parliament.
Yeomen of the Guard embarking on their traditional search of the cellars prior to the State Opening (2024).
Queen Alexandra's State Coach carrying the Imperial State Crown, which is visible through the central window