A LETTER written by the Queen detailing the romance with Prince Phillip is going to auction in Chippenham.

As the birthday celebration draw closer for the Queen’s 90th birthday, the rare handwritten letter from 1947 is being readied for sale at Chippenham Auction Rooms. The letter recounts how she fell in love with Prince Phillip and how their courtship progressed.

Richard Edmonds, principal auctioneer at Chippenham Auction Rooms, said: “This is a wonderfully well-preserved letter written in the Queen’s hand. It gives a fascinating glimpse into the life of the then Princess Elizabeth at what was such a significant time in her life. The price of a letter like this is very difficult to predict but it could be in the region of £800-£1,200.”

The letter was written to the author Mrs Betty Shew before the Queen and Prince Phillip married later that year. Mrs Shew was writing a book called Royal Wedding as a souvenir of the marriage.

The Queen’s letter is just one of a number of items of royal artefacts and memorabilia that go up for sale at the auction rooms on April 23, also including items of Queen Victoria’s apparel including a handkerchief, stockings, nightgown and a chemise.

Mr Edmonds added: “Royal sales of this type can attract attention from all over the wold as there are lots of specialist collectors, particularly in counties like Australia.”

The items will be available for viewing on April 21 from 4pm-8pm and April 22.

For more information on the auction please contact The Chippenham Auction Rooms on 01249 444544 or visit www.chippenhamauctionrooms.co.uk.