A YARN bomber who brightened up post boxes throughout Rhyl during the COVID-19 pandemic was rewarded for all her efforts with a special trip to London this week.

Rachel Williamson of Rhyl was a guest at the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday after her name was put forward for an invite by Vale of Clwyd MP, James Davies.

The retired police officer has always found yarn bombing fascinating and during lockdown decided to cheer people up with her impressive crocheting, which she placed on post boxes early in the morning and late at night.

Rachel attended the prestigious royal event with her twin sister Ruth, and while in London, also met up with Dr Davies and enjoyed a tour of the House of Commons.

After the visit, Dr Davies said: "I was delighted that Rachel was able to attend the Royal Garden Party with her sister and hope they both had a memorable day.

"I first contacted Rachel back in 2020 to thank her for all her brilliant creations on post boxes throughout the town and at that time invited her to visit Parliament when COVID restrictions allowed.

"Two years on, it was great to welcome both Rachel and Ruth to Parliament, and to thank Rachel in person for the role she played in helping to keep spirits up during an often dark period in all our lives.

"Her vibrant coloured hats for post boxes put a smile on many faces. Rachel is a kind-hearted lady and fully deserved this special time in London."

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Rachel said: "When I started doing toppers two years ago, I never thought for a minute that it would lead to me being invited to Buckingham Palace.

"We had the most incredible time. It was a real privilege to be there, a beautiful experience.

"We arrived in London on the Tuesday and went to the theatre that evening.

“On the Wednesday morning, we went to the Houses of Parliament and met James, and then attended the Royal Garden Party in the afternoon.

“We finished our trip on the Thursday with a bus tour of the city before getting the train home.

"I have been completely blown away by the response I have had to the toppers and what it has led to."