Blackburn diamond wedding couple could be last to receive card from Queen

Kathleen and Peter Watkins, who live in Pleckgate, Blackburn, received a diamond wedding card from Queen Elizabeth II on September 7, the day before their anniversary, which falls on September 8.

Kathleen and Peter (Image: Social media)

The couple, who met at King George’s Hall in Blackburn in 1959 and married three years later in 1962, said they are huge fans of the Royal Family and when they heard the news of the Queen’s passing, felt the delivery of their card was poignant and special.

Kathleen and Peter celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary on the day the Queen died (Image: Social media)

Kathleen, 81, said: “This is the first time we’ve received anything from the Queen, but we are great fans of the Royal Family, and receiving this card was very emotional.

“It felt incredible, that she died on our 60th anniversary, and it will be something we will remember forever.

“It was probably one of the last cards to come out before she died, so it’s very special.”

Kathleen, who worked in a bank until she had her first daughter, said she and Peter will be watching coverage of the Royal funeral for most of the day on Monday.

And with three daughters, five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren - who are similar ages to Prince William and Harry’s children, Kathleen says she has grown up with the Royals, watching them achieve milestones at similar times to her own family.

Kathleen and Peter (Image: Social media)

She added: “I remember watching the Queen’s coronation when I was around 12, and then all the Royal weddings, I’ve grown up with the Queen really.

“Peter used to be the managing director for Whitbread, and he spent a lot of time working in London before he retired, and had several opportunities to meet some of the Royal Family.

“He’s actually met Prince Charles. And I think he will make a lovely King, and Camilla will make a great Queen's Consort, they are a good couple.

“And I do think Charles will do a really good job, just like his mother did for so many years.”

Kathleen and Peter celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary with a meal out, alongside 17 of their closest family members, then on Saturday, September 10, they held a huge party at Darwen Golf Club with 120 guests.