‘QUEEN Victoria’ was not amused by the inclement weather and her soaking wet silk crinoline skirt, however she did manage a wry smile when greeted on her arrival at Morwellham Quay recently by a crowd of well-wishers and a garland of colourful umbrellas.

Everyone had turned out in their Sunday best in spite of the torrential rain, in the hope of a few words or even just a nod from the queen.

The event was a re-enactment of the visit made by the real Queen Victoria to the Quay in 1856.

Thanks were expressed to all those who helped make the day such a success: Dressed in a kilt, bagpiper Ian Kempsell piped Her Majesty off the boat; photographer Simon Lock took sepia photos of the day whilst musicians John and Carol Butson kept everyone’s feet tapping with their music.

‘Queen Victoria’ revealed to the village school children that she had not had the cane at school and spoke three languages fluently. She was most impressed with the new chocolatier in the village and even tried her hand at panning for ‘gold’.

The village looks forward to receiving Her Majesty again next year!