with the Queen at Buckingham Palace recently -- and had a chat about soccer.

Mr. Marshall, who went to London to receive the MBE he was awarded in the New Year's honours list, spoke to Her Majesty for almost a minute.

"She asked about our participation in the World Cup and if we were successful,'' he said yesterday. "I said we were to an extent, and she said: `Congratulations for the good run.' "She had very fond memories of Bermuda.'' Mr. Marshall travelled with wife Mrs. Lesley Marshall and their 11-year-old son Ryan.

"The Queen's pictures don't do her justice,'' he added. "She's a very striking lady.'' ROYAL MEETING -- Mr. Charles Marshall pictured with his MBE, which he received from the Queen.