Margaret Thatcher's ashes location, The Royal Hospital, Chelsea

After Margaret was cremated her ashes joined those of her husband Denis in the rear grounds of The Royal Hospital Chelsea - a posh nursing home. Inside this long iconic building carers have been looking after retired soldiers of the British Army since 1692. She'd built up a strong relationship with the place during the last years of her life. She and Denis often spent Sundays together walking around the grounds.

As she was a decisive figure her funeral was always a sensitive point. The small-scale ceremonial funeral here with military honours was one step down from a state funeral. It was attended by a few friends and her two children. Both took it in turns to each place a single red rose alongside the solid oak casket containing the ashes. After some prayers it was put into the earth.

I’m afraid I couldn’t get into the grounds of the place. Security guards were dotted around various gates and I was probably too scruffy anyway. I was hoping to take photos of the plaques but the place must entertain special opening hours. Oh well. I was at school and college when the Iron Lady was in the hot top seat and probably too naive to understand politics. She came in for some friction though. I remember a school friend had his bike stolen and he said, “That Maggie Thatcher’s to blame for all this nicking.” I did a salute and left.