Deborah

What an amazing evening! What can I say? ...It was indeed one of those rare and special events and evenings where everything came together (even the weather!) We had been made aware latterly that there would be food and drink laid on. I being the sceptic, you are probably aware I am now, thought sparkling wine and sausages on sticks! My friend and I were one of the first to arrive and were totally unprepared for the warm welcome we were given along with the glasses of champagne, the brochure, lanyard and cards. How could we not feel (almost royally privileged) as we sipped our glasses of bubbly whilst soaking in the beautiful riverside view and being looked after so attentively by Mr Al Fayed's staff. Like everything else' Michael' looked so much better close up and what a wonderful position he is in. I dont think any of us were prepared for Mr Al Fayed's attendance! It really did drive the message home that he so very much needed to see that we 'approved' of his tribute to his dear friend. What a wonderfully gracious individual he is. Considering his age, he even had the patience to be photographed with each and everyone of us. He has certainly left an indelible mark on all our hearts! I know there were not that many of us last night ( in many was that helped to make the occasion even more special, since many of us knew each other)however, hopefully when he eventually took his leave, he had our sincerest thanks ringing in his ears! Sarah was an absolute sweetheart, as were each and every member of his staff, all were so approachable and helpful. Right up to helping us take photo's of each other beside 'Michael'. For me the most wonderful memory I will take away with me is organising all of my friends and fellow fans to sing 'Hold my Hand' outside as the sunset beside Michael's statue and the wonderful use of Mr Al Fayed's 'cameraman' to video it, to enable me to add a very special video for my next World Record promotional video (I had just expected to video it myself on my little Ipod!). It was spectacularly magical, and one hopes that even Michael was soaking in the atmosphere and smiling! Lastly, and this is where I will be munching copious amounts of aforementioned pie, it was so good to hear from Mr Al Fayed himself the plans to 'open' up the riverside walk to enable fans to have access to Michael at all times! How can I explain how deeply moved I am by the whole evening. I am no dizzy teenager and at my age, special events and evenings such as this do not come by often, however this is one that I will remember for the rest of my life! The only thing missing was Michael in person, we all would have given anything for that statue to come to life! However, to be treated so kindly by all these lovely people was the next best thing and I can now well see why Michael and Mr Al Fayed were so close! Please thank everyone again from me, and everyone else. Please let them know what their kindness meant to us and what memories they have given us to take away! I do hope to be able to maybe work with either you or Sarah in the future in arranging other such events, to enable other fans to 'soak up the atmosphere' and see 'Michael' up close and personal! With kindest regards Deborah Longshaw