THE PARTNER of the Stroud sailor who helped draw the gun carriage which bore the Queen's coffin at Monday's state funeral has spoken of their pride. 

Sam McGeary, aged 28, who only signed up for the Royal Navy around six months ago, marched behind the 123-year-old carriage which carried the Queen’s coffin from Westminster Hall to Westminster Abbey for the service and on to Wellington Arch.

The carriage was towed by 98 Royal Navy sailors in a tradition dating back to the funeral of Queen Victoria while 40 sailors - including Sam - marched behind to act as a brake.

Draped with the Royal Standard, the coffin carried the Imperial State Crown and the Sovereign’s Orb and Sceptre in a stunning display. 

Stroud News and Journal: PAPA (Image: PA)

Sam, from Brimscombe, is currently based on HMS Collingwood and is part of the Regiment Victory Squadron. 

"It was so surreal seeing him on TV"

His partner Isy Cox shared her pride after his involvement in this historic moment. 

"I watched it at home with my family, it was a really proud moment for us all," she said. 

"It was so surreal seeing him on the TV involved with such an event, marking the end of an era. 

"This was a huge honour for Sam and everyone else who was involved."

Sam - who went to Uplands Primary School, Brimscombe Primary and Thomas Keble - decided to join the Navy during lockdown. 

He had previously volunteered for Kick Off Stroud in Brimscombe. 

Walking behind the gun carriage were senior members of the royal family including King Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry, Prince Edward, Prince Andrew and Princess Anne.