The Mayor of Ripon, Coun Sid Hawke, Hornblower George Pickles and Anthony Blackburn, owner of Philip Hall department store and chairman of Ripon Independent Traders Association, will be at the palace for the occasion, on Tuesday.

Coun Hawke said: “This is a once in a lifetime chance to go down to Her Majesty’s and go to a Royal garden party. It’s a privilege and an honour to go there.”

The Mayor is hoping there might be the opportunity to chat with hosts and tell them what is happening in Ripon.

“I would like to speak to Prince Charles and get his feelings on his last visit to Ripon,” said the Mayor, who also met Prince Philip and the Queen when they visited the city as it marked the 400th anniversary of its Royal Charter, in 2004

“I’d also like to tell Prince Charles about the development west of Market Place which has been going on since his last visit.”

Hornblower George Pickles, who will be accompanied by his wife, Lilian, was also looking forward to attending the garden party.

He said: “We are really excited and it is a great privilege. We will represent Ripon city as it should be represented.

“I would be over the moon to speak with a member of the Royal Family. I would love to speak to the Queen and Prince Charles.”