Despite moving to Australia from northern Ireland shortly after the Queen’s coronation in 1953, Mrs Higginson has not missed a royal wedding or ceremony.

“It was a very beautiful day and it went splendidly,” Mrs Higginson said.

The marriage of Prince Harry to Meghan Markle promised a spectacle, and did not disappoint. Mrs Higginson was pleased to see much of the traditions observed, even with their modern twist.

“I especially liked the horses and the carriages, it’s always lovely to see that.”

By comparison to other royal weddings, Mrs Higginson described Saturday’s event as “simple and modern, but traditional where it counts.”

As always, the guest’s fashions and the bride’s dress receive the most attention, but for Mrs Higginson it was Harry’s accessories that prompted her opinions.

“Well he can do as he likes and if he’d like to grow a beard than that’s fine with me, but I had hoped he would trim it a bit for the big day,” she said.

As for the Queen’s lime green number, Mrs Higginson is quietly approving.

“It was an unusual colour for a wedding and an unusual colour for her, but she wore it well.

“Underneath the green coat and hat she was wearing a floral dress, and I guessed she would be wearing floral.”

She believes the colour choice was meant to highlight the Queen’s approval of the Hollywood star turn Duchess of Sussex. 

“The small bouquet Meghan carried was almost the same colour [as the Queen’s coat], which was probably a deliberate choice.”

Even while the world continues to discuss ‘that’ sermon, delivered rather non-traditionally by Bishop Michael Curry, Mrs Higginson chose to reserve her judgement.

“I’d say he went on a bit long, but it was a lovely message and very appropriate for the day.”

In place of the clergy’s lengthy sermon, Mrs Higginson would have liked to see more of the extended family.

“I didn’t see too many of the children, just those who walked down the aisle.

“Maybe they were sleeping, it was a very long day for them.”