Visitors to Buckingham Palace to be given opportunity to view state banquet this summer

Visitors to Buckingham Palace this summer will be able to see the ballroom set-up for a state banquet for the first time.

The Queen has hosted 97 banquets during the course of her reign but this will be the first time members of the public have had the opportunity to see how heads of state are wined and dined at the palace.

The horseshoe-shaped table in the ballroom is dressed with silver-gilt, which was first used to celebrate the birthday of George III in 1811.

Edward Griffiths, deputy master of the Royal Household, said: "I think the display will be of great interest to members of the hospitality industry, and in particular students."

The summer opening of Buckingham Palace runs until 29 September 2008, open daily from 9.45am to 6pm. Visit www.royalcollection.org.uk for more.

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By Janet Harmer

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