It was a right Royal affair at Mosaic Jewish Community when 50 members enjoyed a fascinating evening with Michael O’Keefe, whose career in the Royal Household spanned an incredible 43 years. His talk delivered a treasure trove of inside stories, royal memorabilia, and photographs that kept the audience hanging on his every word.

Michael began by passing around iconic framed photos taken by two Royal photographers. First, Mark Lawrence, whose talent for extracting smiles from the late Queen and Prince Philip was legendary, and then Julian Calder, renowned for his images that delivered gravity and dignified composure from the Royal couple.

The audience chuckled as Michael recounted Mark Lawrence’s story of how his mother urged her son to tell Her Majesty how much she loved the Queen. The Queen responded: “We also love you too.”

Michael showed the audience a lavish gold-enamelled plate, produced to commemorate 50 years of Queen Elizabeth’s reign (just £300, for those with royal taste in souvenirs!) Additionally, the official birthday cards sent to centenarians and the newlywed photos for diamond wedding anniversaries, which can now be purchased in splendid frames.

He demonstrated how royal insignias can be transferred onto keepsakes such as ashtrays and pottery, and his display of commemorative playing cards, produced for the 50th anniversary of the Queen’s accession, fascinated everyone. Perhaps most extraordinary was the chance for everyone to see a range of photographs spanning the Queen’s life alongside Prince Philip to the present day with King Charles and Queen Camilla.

In a memorable finale, Michael produced copies of both the Queen’s Royal Warrant, dated 31st March 2016, and the King’s for December 16th 2024, offering a glimpse of royal tradition in action.