BBC radio station Five Live thought they had the scoop of the century when The Queen agreed to spend time in the studio on star presenter Nicky Campbell's show yesterday morning. Increased listening figures were guaranteed but no one could have predicted the controversy that has followed after Her Majesty's strange behaviour on the air.
Giggling and flirting openly with a compliant Campbell and even taking a turn reading the traffic news in a fake cockney accent - "If yer on the M25 right now it's tough luck me old china!" - were just some of the antics she got up to.
What has really stunned the country, however, were The Queen's answers to questions Campbell put to her on a variety of topics.
On the BBC itself: "Why all the regional accents now? We can't understand the presenters any more. Are they from Birmingham or Belfast, or some ghastly place in between? It drives my husband wild."
On criticism of the monarchy: "We work bloody hard for our money thank you very much. Okay maybe not Edward but he has problems tying his shoes in the morning let alone doing public appearances."
On Kate: "Easy on the eye. Brainier than the Spencer gel but not so well connected."
A palace spokesman later denied gaffes had been made by the royal visitor. "We're just going with the new spirit of openness that's about. Her Majesty may apply to go on Big Brother next!"