Fri, 15 May, 2026
TWI was delighted to be invited to attend a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on 12 May, 2026.
The Palace holds three garden parties each year, with this event inviting around 8,000 people to attend, including TWI Consultant Melissa Riley, who was nominated by our Executive Team to represent TWI.
While Melissa reveals that she felt “honoured and privileged” to be chosen to represent her colleagues past and present, it was a bittersweet day as her late husband, Andy Tabecki, was not there to enjoy it with her.
Andy, who was our Lead Research Technician in Surface Engineering - with 48 years’ service at TWI - unexpectedly passed away earlier this year.
Melissa, who attended the event with her younger brother Matthew, said, “Andy was so excited about the trip to the palace, and I know he was there with us in spirit yesterday. Matthew and I both had a wonderful time.”
She continued, “Thanks to the surface engineering team at TWI and other colleagues across the business who have coached, mentored and supported me over the years and work hard every day to deliver technical excellence to our Members and contribute to the engineering world, both in the UK and across the globe. Thanks also to all the support teams who enable us to deliver and make an impact. It was an honour to be able to represent you all yesterday.”
The Welding Institute / TWI CEO, Caroline Gumble said, “We are incredibly proud to have been represented at Buckingham Palace by Melissa. This recognition reflects not only her outstanding contribution, but also the collective effort and excellence of colleagues across TWI. We were especially touched by Melissa’s tribute to Andy, whose remarkable legacy continues to inspire us all. It is a privilege to see the dedication of our people acknowledged in this way, and I would like to thank Melissa for representing TWI with such warmth, professionalism and pride.”
TWI is honoured to have been invited to attend the garden party in recognition of our positive work for UK industry and thank Melissa for representing us on the day.