THE Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire has expressed his gratitude to the people of the county for making the Queen's visit such an enjoyable and memorable occasion.

Lord Shuttleworth, the Queen's representative in Lancashire, said the golden jubilee celebrations across the county had been wonderful culminating in a great day for all as Her Majesty visited Preston.

Lord Shuttleworth said: "It was remarkable that the Queen was able to meet a large individual number of people. The walkabout was fantastic. At the reception a large number of guests had moments with the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh."

He added: "I know she enjoyed the day. Before they boarded the royal train to leave Preston, Her Majesty was talking to the Duke as they stood side-by-side on the platform. I think I would have been inclined to put my feet up!"

Commenting on the Queen's Jubilee Gift competition, organised by The Citizen, Lord Shuttleworth echoed Her Majesty's praise for the winning entry, a unique watercolour of the Hodder Valley, painted by Douglas Holloway, from Longton. The retired architect presented his painting to Her Royal Highness and it travelled on-board the royal train with Her Majesty when she departed from the city.

"The Queen said that it was really a very attractive painting and a lovely reminder of Lancashire," said Lord Shuttleworth.