Fortnum & Mason Celebrates Her Majesty The Queen's Diamond Jubilee

Online, April 18, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Since 1707, and over twelve reigns, Fortnum & Mason has represented the epitome of British quality and service.

2012 witnesses the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who, for sixty years, has reigned over this Sceptr'd Isle.

When King George VI died on 6 February 1952, Princess Elizabeth immediately became Queen. Although she was not crowned until the following year, it is this date, the day of her accession, that marks the beginning of her reign. On 6 February 2012, Queen Elizabeth will have reigned for 60 years, and she is only the second of our monarchs to do so - the other being Queen Victoria. There is only one other monarch alive today, the King of Thailand, who has celebrated a Diamond Jubilee. So this is a very rare and special event.

The Diamond Jubilee is particularly significant for Fortnum & Mason, as the store has connections with the royal family throughout its 300-year history. It is very important to us that we celebrate this royal event in typical Fortnum's style.

The last 60 years have been important in Fortnum's own history. In 1951, just before Elizabeth became Queen, Garfield Weston, fell in love with Fortnum's and bought the store, which proved to be the beginning of a whole new era.

Fortnum & Mason has planned a fitting year of tribute and celebration:

The Buyers, Chefs, Growers, Blenders, Designers and Tasters have worked their creative genius and exemplary palates to create a range of 60 celebratory foods, drink, treats and Diamond Jubilee commemorative gifts, available from Autumn 2011. These Diamond Jubilee commemorative gifts include Jubilee mugs, Jubilee commemorative china and Jubilee keepsake gifts.

From January 2012 the iconic store at 181 Piccadilly store will be completely decorated with a huge ribbon threading throughout.

From February 2012, there will be an inspiring and beautiful exhibition of the finest craftspeople from Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST).

The famous St James's restaurant and tearoom will be refurbished for March 2012.

There will be many more exciting celebratory events throughout 2012.

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For further information, please contact: Sarah Street [email protected]: 020 7861 2525