Queen accepts '˜very useful' gift from Edinburgh silversmiths

THE Queen's apparent preference for using sticky notes has been recognised during a visit to an Edinburgh silversmiths and jewellery house.

The Queen in the silversmiths workshop during a visit to Hamilton and Inches jewellers. Picture: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

She was presented with a wood and sterling silver holder for the square pads of paper when she rounded off her visit to Hamilton and Inches - and described the gift as “very useful”.

Chief executive Stephen Paterson told her: “A little birdie told us that this may come in quite handy. It’s a Post-it note holder for your desk.”

The Queen said: “Oh, that’s very kind. (It’s) very useful.”

The Duke of Edinburgh, who accompanied her on the visit, noted that it was for “those sticky things”.

The Queen was also presented with a silver bowl inspired by the River Tay for her 90th birthday, while Philip received a kilt pin.

The presentation of the gifts came at the end of a trip around the firm’s showroom and workshops on George Street.

The royal couple spoke to a number of crafts men and women during the visit, which marked the 150th anniversary of the business, which is a royal warrant holder.

They also met Andy Scott, the artist behind the Kelpies sculptures in Falkirk.

The Queen dressed for the occasion in a Karl Ludwig outfit - a vibrant royal blue wool crepe coat and a dress in flower-printed Jacquard silk. Her matching hat was by Angela Kelly.

The Duke was on jovial form as he toured the establishment.

As he was shown some silver maces, he jokingly asked if they were “in for repair,” to which Mr Paterson replied: “They’re only here for you.”

When shown another silver artefact, Philip quipped that it could be a “massive quaich”, a Scottish drinking cup.

He also showed an interest in a dress ring worn by Debbie McKernan, the firm’s head of jewellery, and took her hand to have a closer look.

She later explained: “I said, ‘You have a good eye, this is a ring that we’re looking to launch this year’.”

Mr Paterson later said it was a “huge honour” to have a visit from the Queen on the firm’s 150th year.

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