BBC’s Antiques Roadshow took viewers on an enchanting journey as they aired a special episode dedicated to the life of Queen Elizabeth II following her tragic passing on September, 8.
Taking place on the former HMY Britannia, the programme focused on special historical moments in the Queen’s life including her childhood and her marriage to Prince Philip in 1947.
But things took a rather surprising turn when they interviewed horticulturist Tom Hart Dyke who bought in a dead moth which he claimed helped produce silk for the Queen’s wedding gown.
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Talking to expert Hilary Kay, the guest spoke about his grandmother’s relationship with silk and sericulture.
Tom said: “This is fantastic Hillary!
“Granny really was in the world of sericulture, in the world of silk.
“And this is the original silk moth here Bombyx mori.”
He added: “These and the eggs around it were responsible for the Queen’s wedding dress!”
The Queen’s spectacular wedding gown was made from ivory silk satin, and was encrusted with 10,000 seed pearls. It was also embroidered with star lilies and orange blossoms.
It is believed that her tailor made wedding dress, designed by royal couturier Norman Hartnell, cost £30,000 and took seven weeks to make.
Lady Pamela Hicks, who was one of Elizabeth’s bridesmaids at the time said: “With her bridal dress and tiara on her wedding day, she was a knockout.”
Although there was no valuations during Sunday’s episode of Antiques Roadshow, fans were impressed with the special programme.
Taking to Twitter, fans shared their thoughts on the programme as well as their own experiences on the Royal Yacht Britannia.
One social media user penned: “Currently enjoying tonight’s Commemorative/Royal Yacht Britannia edition of #antiquesroadshow.”
Another chimed: “We had a lovely visit to the Royal Yacht Brittania for a significant birthday. It just happens to be the same date as her Accession to the throne. I told one of the guides about the connection.”
A third said: “Antiques Roadshow is worth a watch now, some heart-warming stories of the Queen.”
While a fourth viewer added: “I’m loving today’s #antiquesroadshow special onboard the Royal Yacht Britannia!”
While others wondered when the special programme to honour the Queen’s death was filmed, with one person writing: “Did they produce this episode of #antiquesroadshow in days, or was this filmed ages ago, operation London bridge is a thing after all.”
You can leave your tributes to Queen Elizabeth II here
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
