THE party in Bradda Road, Blackburn, had a tribute table to the Queen with 73 red, white and blue miniature fairy cakes marking her reign from 1952-2012 and a flag shaped sponge cake in the Royal colours.

Patricia, who had spent the night before preparing everything from trifle and sandwiches to cakes and punch, said: “We couldn’t do anything about the weather, but we’ve learnt from the past and got a marquee. It has been a royal success despite the weather.”

They drank sherry and sang God Save the Queen at 3pm as part of their celebrations.