Ruling for an incredible seventy years, Queen Elizabeth II is not just the longest reigning monarch in British history, but also the oldest. As the festivities for her Platinum Jubilee continue, we take a look at seven things which you may not know about the Queen.

The first head of state to send an email.

In 1976, while at a research facility at a British Army base, Queen Elizabeth II sent her first ever email. She also sent her first tweet in 2014 during an exhibition visit at the Science Museum.

Personal alarm clock.

The Queen has her very own bagpiper, known as ‘Piper to the Sovereign’, who wakes her up every morning at 9am by playing outside her window for fifteen minutes.

Breeder of all animals.

As well as breeding Corgis, Queen Elizabeth II also breeds Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, and even Horses! Corgis are one of twenty-nine dogs considered vulnerable to extinction, and what’s more incredible is that internet searchers for Corgis increased by 59% in 2012 after the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Creator of a new dog breed.

As we all know, Queen Elizabeth II has a love for Corgis. But did you know that she and Princess Margaret are known for creating a new breed? Princess Margaret’s Dachshund and one of the Queen’s Corgis were left alone and just like that, a new breed ‘the Dorgi’ was created!

Owner of all the Whales and Dolphins in UK waters.

“Also the King shall have whales and sturgeons taken in the sea or elsewhere within the realm”; is a quote from King Edward II’s reign on a statue from 1324. This statue is still valid today, so therefore the quote remains for the Queen.

Also owner of all Swans in the UK.

Monarchs have held the right to ownership of all unmarked swans in open waters across the UK since the 12th century. This was enforced due to swans being eaten at banquets and feasts. This doesn’t happen anymore, however, the rule still stands.

Handbag signals.

Queen Elizabeth II utilises her handbag as a way of sending signals to staff. When she wishes to move on, the bag is dropped to the side of her arm. If she places it on the table, it means she is ready to leave in five minutes, and if it is placed on the floor it means she is bored and wants to be rescued.

You can view our latest range in celebration of Queen Elizabeth II HERE.