THE Queen's first garden party of the year proved to be a "truly memorable day" for organisers of the Golden Jubilee celebrations in Ramsbottom.

Councillor Dorothy Gunther and Mr Bryan Farlow were invited to represent Ramsbottom at the Royal Garden Party held earlier this month as a thank-you to for playing a leading part in the borough's jubilee celebrations.

Mr Farlow, who designed and made commemorative stained glass windows installed in Ramsbottom Library said: "It was a truly memorable year and an ample reward on behalf of all the people of Ramsbottom for their efforts during the golden jubilee year."

Mr Farlow, who lives in Carr Bank Avenue, took as his guest his brother Barry, who travelled from Canada. Unfortunately the trio did not get a chance meeting with the Queen.

Mr Farlow said: "The weather was perfect and there was ample room on the chamomile lawn for the 8,000 invited guests from all walks of life. At precisely 4pm the the Queen entered from the west terrace to the playing of the National Anthem. She was accompanied by Prince Philip, the Prince of Wales, the Duke of York and Princess Alexandra."

He added: "The atmosphere was perfectly relaxed and most enjoyable. At 6pm the Queen and other members of the royal family left."

The day ended with a stroll around the 40 acre garden which is complete with a three acre lake and small waterfall, and a visit to the two ground-floor rooms of the palace.