AN ANDOVER man who had the honour of representing the town at the prestigious Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall has shared his experience of the event. 

Rick Patient, who is known for his dedication and proactive involvement as a standard bearer in Andover, was part of the ceremony held at the Royal Albert Hall on Saturday, November 11.

He was filled with excitement, anticipation, and nervousness as he travelled to his hotel the day before the event.

READ MORE: Andover man to represent town at Royal Albert Hall

Rick said: "I arrived at the accreditation cabin to check in and get our security passes as instructed. There were lots of RBL staff and police officers to reassure us of our safety.

"Then we made our way over to the Imperial College in South Kensington, to our dressing room and chilling out room."

Nervousness set in as a quick briefing took place before heading to the iconic Royal Albert Hall, preceded by another security check.

Rick described the surreal moment of walking around the corridors of the Royal Albert Hall, realising that he was fulfilling a long-standing item on his bucket list.

He reflected on a promise made to a fallen Chelsea Pensioner, Fred Abraham, who proudly carried the Andover standard for 23 years.

Rick proudly said: "I made it, Fred, just for you."

Rehearsals commenced and finished slightly later than expected, prompting a search for a restaurant without alcohol to ensure he was ready for the morning's events.

Rick's early wake-up call at 5am marked the start of Saturday's busy schedule, with a briefing at 6.30am at the Imperial College before dashing over to the Royal Albert Hall.

Security checks were a recurring theme, with Rick expressing gratitude for the reassuring presence of police officers.

The day included rehearsals, a breakfast provided by the Garrison Sgt/Major, and a dress rehearsal in smart casual clothes.

After lunch, there was a final dress rehearsal in the afternoon before returning to the Imperial College to don smart black suits and white shirts, meticulously pressed and polished.

SEE ALSO: Photos from Remembrance Sunday parade and service in Andover

With standards under their arms, Rick and his fellow participants made their way back to the Royal Albert Hall for two performances at 2pm and 7pm.

The day concluded around 9.30pm, prompting a quick dash to Waterloo Station to catch the last train home.

Despite the long day, Rick said: "I'm honoured to be given the chance to carry the branch standard, and have been for 5-6 years and as the RBL's motto is 'Service Not Self'."