Sidmouth councillor met Duke at royal garden party

A district councillor attended an unforgettable royal garden party hosted by the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh – but was surprised to learn Prince Philip was admitted to hospital just hours later.

Frances Newth, from Sidmouth, and her husband enjoyed festivities at party at Buckingham Palace last Thursday (June 6).

She was representing East Devon District Council as past vice chairman and said: “Her Majesty the Queen was absolutely wonderful, dressed in a beautiful mint green outfit. The Duke of Edinburgh was in really good spirits laughing and joking, and imagine our surprise to hear that he was admitted to hospital the same evening.

“We met people from all over the country including Sir John Cave and Lady Cave and I felt enormously privileged. The day will live in my memory for the rest of my life.”