North-east nonagenarians have been invited to a royal-themed celebration to mark the Queen’s 90th birthday.
The Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire, Lady Clare Russell, has asked residents, aged 90 and over, to visit Ballindalloch Castle for a tea party.
She has spent the past months canvassing community councils and scouring the region’s care homes and churches for eligible attendees.
And it’s anticipated that around 100 people from what was the historic county of Banffshire will choose their finest outfits for the gathering, on Saturday, May 21.
Mrs Russell said the Birthday Tea Party would be the perfect way for those around the same age as the Queen to commemorate her life.
She added: “Our Queen has devoted her life to this country for over sixty years, without putting a foot wrong.
“She is the perfect example of duty, service and selflessness.
“Having now reached the age of 90 years, she continues to serve with undiminished commitment, and many of her contemporaries here look forward to celebrating her great achievement.”
Final plans are now being laid for the party, which will feature live music, specially chosen to strike a chord with guests.
The Kinloss Military Wives Choir will perform a range of wartime ditties that they hope will evoke some fond memories of years gone by among the audience.
Member Jenn French said: “It’s wonderful to be asked to be a part of this, and we are currently working on a set of songs that were popular during the war.
“These might bring back some memories for people and encourage a bit of a singalong.”
Andy McCormack and his ceilidh band will also perform along with Aberlour musician John Cockburn.
The bugle band attached to Buckie Boys Brigade will play as the guests arrive, and there will also be displays of highland dancing.
Ballindalloch Estate toasted its royal connections last April when the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay opened a whisky plant.
Prince Charles commended the “splendid new distillery” in a speech before unveiling a plaque.
