This invitation is for a party to celebrate the coronation of Queen
Elizabeth II. Movita Costello was invited to a local children's coronation
party on 5 June 1953. The party was held at the United Free Church in Mill
Hill. Movita Costello (now Durrant) is shown in the photograph attending
the party.
Celebrating the monarchy
The invitation is printed in red, white and blue, the traditional colours
of the Union Jack flag. Illustrations of flags and banners surround the
central portrait of the young queen. The event marked a new era of hope
after the difficult years that followed the end of the Second World War.
Marking the occasion
At the time of the coronation, many parties and events were held to
celebrate the special royal occasion. They took place not just in London,
but throughout the UK.