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The Day the Queen visited Tillicoultry

On Friday 28th June 1963, Queen Elizabeth II, accompanied by Prince Phillip visited Tillicoultry arriving by train at Tillicoultry Station. She met leading citizens and planted a flowering cherry tree near the entrance to Devonvale Hall. (This tree no longer exists)

Although the weather was a bit dismal there was great excitement in the town for the Royal visit, with flags and bunting along the royal route and a large banner saying "Tillicoultry welcomes you" The primary school was closed for the day but the children met at the school and were marched down to the station to wait for the Royal party arriving. The Queen told Provost Eccles how pleased she was to see all the children as a welcoming party. The Royal visit was brief but the festivities continued all day and culminated in a fireworks display at night.

The Queen and Prince Phillip arriving at Devonvale Hall

(photograph courtesy of The Scotsman Publications Ltd ©)

Provost Eccles' wife, Cathie remembered the day well. "The Queen was dressed in a yellow coat and hat, trimmed with navy blue. She was very polite and spoke to us all. After the ceremony we went to Alloa Academy for lunch with the Queen and Prince Phillip. It was a very memorable day"

A thank you letter from the Queen. For a larger version click on word doc or pdf file

Thanks to Margaret for the above photos and letter

Dr WB Ross being presented to the Queen

Thanks to Bill Ross from Australia for sending this photo. Bill was in Miss Fraser's class at Coalsnaughton Primary School that day. He remembers walking down the brae and standing on the southern side of Devonvale Hall to watch the ceremonies.

A police car waiting for the Queen	Leaving by car

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