Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Coronation duo’s outfits to be shown at exhibition
TWO original outfits worn at the Queen’s coronation and one of Her Majesty’s own are set to go on display to mark the Platinum Jubilee.
A gown worn by Lady Moyra Campbell as well as Lord Erne’s ensemble will go on display at Enniskillen Castle in Co Fermanagh from Thursday.
Lady Moyra was one of six maids of honour at the coronation, while Lord Erne was the First Page of Honour.
While both have since died, their families found the carefully preserved garments from the 1953 event.
Lady Moyra’s son Rory found the dress at their home near Randalstown, Co Antrim.
It had been stored under duvets to protect the delicate colours from sunlight.
PRESERVED
Lady Moyra’s headdress and long white gloves she wore were also preserved.
Mr Campbell said his mother, who died in 2020, had known the Queen since they were children.
But he believes she was selected as the Palace wanted women from across the UK represented.
After the service they went back to Buckingham Palace and appeared on the balcony.
Rory said: “That was obviously a thrill, and then they all went their separate ways. Mum went home, put on a cardy and went out to join the crowds to feel part of the buzz.”
Meanwhile, Lord Erne, whose dad died in 2015, found his outfit in Crom Castle.
He said: “We always knew they were in a very secure metal box in our attic but we hadn’t discovered them properly until very recently.
“He was at school at the time, at Eton College.
“So he would have come up, gone to the Palace to get changed, escorted Her Majesty to Westminster Abbey, then came back and had his appearance on the balcony before all those thronging crowds who had come to wish her well.”