THE historian behind a town centre museum rubbed shoulders with royalty after being invited to a prestigious garden party.

Mike Davies, chairman of Rayleigh Through The Looking Glass and founder of the Rayleigh Town Museum, said he felt "privileged" to be a guest Buckingham Palace.

He was invited to attend a the royal garden party as a guest of John Patrick Lionel Petre, Lord Lieutenant of Essex.

The historian found himself just feet away from the Queen, who celebrated her 90th birthday last month.

Mr Davies said: "It is only ever possible to attend one garden party and it was certainly a day to remember. A sentiment shared by others I know who have been privileged to attend.

“My wife Sharon and myself were invited by Lord Petre, The Lord Lieutenant of Essex, to attend one of the Royal garden parties this year at Buckingham Palace."

He added: “Unfortunately the weather was a little overcast and umbrellas had to be used on a number of occasions.

“Although we were not personally introduced to her Majesty the attendees were able to get within feet on her on a number of occasions. “

He said while security was understandably very strict given the hoste, it was “invisible”, helping guests relax and enjoy the garden party.

Mr Davies added: “I commented to Sharon that the catering was more like Waitrose than Marks and Spencer and she advised that it was probably more like Fortnum and Masons .

“For mass catering the tea and coffee was hot and the finger sandwiches, pastries and cakes, with royal monogram, were outstanding.

The couple mixed with other guests, including council chairmen, mayors, members of the clergy and military personnel, from across the Commonwealth.

Mr Davies believes his invitation came as a result of his work with Rayleigh Through The Looking Glass and the Rayleigh Town Museum.

The museum, in Rayleigh High Street, officially opened to the public last month thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Funding.

Mr and Mrs Davies couple attended the garden party on Tuesday, May 10, just two days before the Queen's ongoing birthday celebrations began.