A MAN who survived a murderous arson attack in Huddersfield has told of his proud royal appointment.
Muhammed Shafiq, 34, was introduced to the Queen at a reception at Buckingham Palace.
And he was delighted that he was able to chat with her and tell her how his family had recovered from the horrendous crime.
Mr Shafiq, of Birkby, was one of 600 people invited to attend the reception at Buckingham Palace this week.
He was joined by Huddersfield puppeteer Steve Wright, whose work involves productions aimed at young people on serious issues.
The guests list ranged from the famous such as Sir Cliff Richard and pop mogul Pete Waterman to dozens of ordinary men and woman from across the country.
Mr Shafiq - one of the three survivors of last year's Birkby firembomb which claimed eight lives - was chosen to go because of his work in the community since the attack.
He said: "It went well. I met the Queen and shook hands with her and she asked me about what happened and what I have done. It was really a great honour to be there and to have met her.
"Prince Andrew and Prince Edward were there, along with Edward's wife Sophie, the Countess of Wessex.
"It was really good and I am proud at the way my family responded to what happened with the terrible crime and the trial, and with the way our patience has been recognised.
"I represented my family and was very proud to have been there."
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