London Pearly Queen Rose Matthews and Prince Consort George Smith arrive in style.
A British European Airways (BEA) flight brings two members of London's other royal family to Ireland. As they disembark from the plane, Pearly Queen of Hampstead, Rose Matthews and Prince Consort George Smith wave for a waiting photographer.
The royal couple are to attend a Shannon Airborne Holidays reception in Dublin to promote Britain as an attractive tourist destination for Irish people. They do not accept any fee for their appearances but only ask that transport to their destinations and back, be paid.
The tradition of Pearly Kings and Queens, also known as Pearlies, began in Victorian times and remains a colourful part of London’s history. As is customary with royalty, Pearly titles are passed down through the generations.
Pearlies are known for their elaborately decorated outfits. Their hats, suits and shoes are covered in mother-of-pearl buttons. George's suit, covered with about 30,000 buttons, was made in the 1930s. Rose Matthews coat is similarly decorated. Her hat is adorned with ostrich feathers.
Every London borough has its own Pearlies dedicated to raising money for charity. Rose’s parents, Bert and Beck Matthews started this form of charity work. In their 66 years as Pearly King and Queen of Hampstead, they collected over £250,000. Rose Matthews and George Smith have been collecting for 35 years.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 29 April 1970. The footage shown here is mute.
