Businessman Tom Sheldon became master of a livery company just less than a year ago, little realising he would be hosting a lunch for the Queen.

The chartered surveyor and former estate manager of Turkey Mill Business Park, Maidstone, was on royal duty at the event in Westminster Hall on the final day of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

As Master of the Mercers’ Company, he represented all 108 livery companies of the City of London and sat next to the Queen and gave a widely reported speech of welcome to Her Majesty.

He said: “Today we mark and we give thanks for your 60 years of unstinting, unwavering commitment and service to the nation, to the wider world, and also to each and every one of your subjects here in the United Kingdom, and each and every man and woman of the nations of the Commonwealth.

“When you came to the Throne there was talk of a new Elizabethan Age. Much has changed in the last six decades, but it has been the age of Elizabeth.

“You embody the very best of our national values, and represent all of which we are most proud.

"You are a constant in a changing world, and a constant good, with a reign characterised by a very personal connection and affinity with everyone you meet, whether they be head of state or the youngest child.”

Mr Sheldon, who continues to be a non-executive director of Turkey Mill Investments, said: “It was a great honour for. I was delighted to represent all the City livery companies on such a special occasion.

It has been a great privilege to be Master Mercer and I have thoroughly enjoyed my year, but the Jubilee lunch was the absolute highlight.”