Sympathetic Wellington woman Maggie Doble has received a letter from Buckingham Palace thanking her for a card she sent to the Queen.

Maggie (pictured), of Burrough Way, sent the card expressing her best wishes at what she says has been a difficult time for the monarch with intense media interest in issues surrounding Prince Andrew, and Prince Harry and his wife.

The letter, signed by a lady-in-waiting, said: “The Queen wishes me to write and thank you for your card.

“Her Majesty thought it kind of you to write to her, and The Queen much appreciated your message of support and good wishes for her and the Royal Family at this time.

“Her Majesty is most grateful for the assurance of your prayers, and I am to thank you very much once again.”

Maggie, who says she is not a Royalist, said: “I felt sorry for her – she’s been getting the rough end of the Press. I told her my thoughts and prayers were with her.” She added: “It’s not every day you hear from Buckingham Palace!”