Queen Elizabeth II’s interpreter during royal visit to Thailand turns 101 years old

Yesterday, a glamorous 101 year old lady in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand, reflected on her experience of interpreting for Queen Elizabeth II during Her Majesty’s visit to Thailand 50 years ago.

Srithong Ariwong is pictured in a red outfit alongside Queen Elizabeth and Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip in the northern province of Chiang Mai on February 14, 1972.

Queen Elizabeth, the Duke of Edinburgh and Princess Anne visited Thailand for six days, hosted by King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Queen Sirikit and the extended Thai royal family.

The former teacher interpreted for the British royals during their visit to Chiang Mai University, where they looked at orchids and a range of locally-made handicrafts such as lacquerware and umbrellas weaved from bamboo.

Srithong was assigned the role of interpreter by nature of her exceptionally fluent English skills at a time when very few people in Chiang Mai spoke English. Born in Phrae province in northern Thailand, Srithong showed impressive academic ability at a young age and received a scholarship to study at Wattana Wittayalai School – a missionary school where much of the curriculum was taught in English.

Srithong moved back to Phrae province upon completing her education and then moved back to Chiang Mai after marrying her husband, who was the director of McCormick Hospital. Srithong taught English and Music at Dara Wittayalai School, where she eventually became headmistress.

The teacher temporarily left the school for two years when she received a scholarship to study in the US, where her English advanced even further. With experience studying abroad, Srithong was the natural fit to interpret for Queen Elizabeth, her husband and Princess Anne.

Prior to the occasion, Srithong said she was both excited but also worried. In the end, everything went smoothly and successfully, said Srithong.

Now, Srithong lives with her daughter in the San Sai area of Chiang Mai. She recently turned 101 years old, is in good health, has spectacular memory and is as glamorous as ever.

Srithong said she was deeply saddened by the news of the Queen’s death and expressed her condolences to the royal family. The elderly lady said she is proud of herself for interpreting for the royals during their visit to Thailand 50 years ago.

SOURCE: MGR Online