Nostalgia: A royal welcome in 1987

On a gloriously sunny April day, thousands turned out to cheer the Queen Mother as she visited Ashton to open the Museum of the Manchester Regiment.

Crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the nation’s favourite grandmother as the royal motorcade made its way through Denton and Guide Bridge. In Ashton, all eyes were on the steps of the Town Hall next to the market where the eager air of anticipation that had been steadily building since early morning reached a crescendo.

Ten minutes ahead of schedule, the gleaming burgundy Rolls Royce reached its destination. The Queen Mother, looking radiant in a collarless turquoise wool crepe coat and matching velour hat, stepped out to a tumultuous welcome.

For old comrades of the 1st, 2nd, 8th, 9th and 10th battalions of the Manchester Regiment waiting patiently in the blazing sunshine, there were precious moments they would remember for the rest of their lives as the royal visitor took time to chat to them on the Market Square.

With the applause continuing for several minutes, cries of ‘isn’t she lovely!’ and ‘God bless you Ma’am!’ could be heard as the 86-year-old Queen Mother walked unhurriedly to the red carpeted town hall steps to be warmly greeted by the Lord Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, Sir William Downward and the Mayor of Tameside, Cllr Jack Pettit. Turning to face the crowd, the smiling royal captivated young and old alike.

Speaking to the council leader Roy Oldham, the Queen Mother expressed her thanks for the “wonderful welcome.”

Eleven-year-old Victoria Greenough, daughter of Cllr Les Greenough, chairman of the libraries and arts committee presented her with a posy of spring flowers.

The Queen Mother unveiled a plaque and received two Victoria Cross medals which were to be retained in the museum. After touring the new attraction, the Queen Mother presented a surprise gift to the Mayor - a signed portrait of herself which she asked to be displayed.

She said: “The museum breaks entirely new ground and has a wide appeal. I congratulate all those who have brought this exciting venture to fruition.”