Former Prime Minister Thatcher says her final farewell to Sir Denis

AS the strains of The Last Post faded away, a guard of honour of 12 red-coated Chelsea Pensioners saluted the Union Flag-draped coffin of Sir Denis Thatcher as it left the chapel of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, following his funeral service.

Baroness Thatcher, head bowed and looking frail, and flanked by their twin children, Carol and Mark, stood still on the steps of the magnificent 17th century Wren building as the coffin, decked with red roses and white lilies her own tribute was taken away.

Lady Thatcher walked painfully slowly both into and out of the chapel, with both her children putting protective arms around her waist.