Fed: Sydney service for Queen Mum a preview of London funeral

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Fed: Sydney service for Queen Mum a preview of London funeral

Australians have had a sneak preview of the Queen Mother's funeral service today, withthe blessing of Buckingham Palace.

About 700 mourners attended a memorial service at Sydney's St Andrew's cathedral thismorning, featuring hymns and lessons to be heard later at London's Westminster Abbey.

An Anglican Church spokeswoman says the office of New South Wales governor MARIE BASHIRchecked with Buckingham Palace and the Sydney service was given the official OK.

Governor-General PETER HOLLINGWORTH read one of the lessons at today's service anddescribed the QUEEN MOTHER as the world's great grandmother.

Archbishop of Sydney PETER JENSEN recalled the Queen Mother's courage, sacrifice anddetermination in the face of bombing by Nazi Germany in World War Two.

AAP RTV dc/wjf/rp

KEYWORD: ROYALS MOTHER (SYDNEY)