The Queen commemorated what would have been the start of the Chelsea Flower Show on Monday (18 May) with a picture from her very first event as monarch in 1952.
The annual show was cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic, and instead has launched online as Virtual Chelsea with a programme of digital events taking place from 18 to 23 May.
The Royal Family's Twitter account posted the black and white photo of Her Majesty at the show along with the message: "The Royal Family’s association with the #RHSChelsea Flower Show began in 1913, when Queen Alexandra attended the first Show.
"Her Majesty has been Patron of the Royal Horticultural Society since 1952 and is pictured here at her first Show as Monarch."
The Queen also sent her best wishes to everyone associated with the Royal Horticultural Society and the Chelsea Flower show, releasing the statement: "My family and I have always enjoyed visiting the Show, and I know that your Members and Supporters will be disappointed that they are unable to attend in person this year.
"I am sure that my grandmother, Queen Mary, who first attended the Chelsea Flower Show in 1916, would be delighted that many people today have an enthusiasm for horticulture."
The Chelsea Flower Show has gone digital this week, offering an exciting line-up of world-leading designers, plant experts and practical gardening advice.
Other highlights will include behind the scenes clips with multi-Gold medal-winning Raymond Evison at his iconic clematis nursery, and advice on how to grow peonies and tulips, plus practical floristry inspiration.
Viewers will also be able to participate in potting demonstrations, a school gardening club with activities for kids, and lunchtime Q&As with gardening experts.
Fans can also get involved by voting for the RHS Chelsea Plant of the Decade and the RHS Chelsea Product of the Year – from Tuesday (19 May) – and the BBC / RHS People’s Choice Garden of the Decade.
Virtual Chelsea started on Monday for RHS members only, with the rest of the week open to the public from Tuesday (19 May).
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