Kendal man receives letter from the Queen after painting picture marking her Jubilee

Talented Rex Marsden, 80, who lives in Kendal Care Home, marked Her Majesty's '70 glorious years' by creating an oil painting of a man with the Queen's crown.

Rex received a letter from Windsor Castle by the Queen's Lady-in-Waiting Susan Rhodes written on behalf of the Queen.

In the letter, Susan Rhodes said: "The Queen wishes me to write and thank you for your letter in which you kindly refer to Her Majesty's Platinum Jubilee.

"The Queen was pleased to receive a print of your splendid oil painting, the original of which is hanging in the foyer of Kendal Care Home bringing much please to visitors.

Rex Marsden and his book of paintings

"Her Majesty greatly appreciates your thought for her at this time, and I am to thank you again for writing as you did."

Rex said he was shocked and surprised to receive a reply from the Queen adding: "It brings smiles to relatives who come visit us."

Rex's oil paintings are displayed all around the care home for residents and visitors to enjoy. 

Gary Townsend, activities co-ordinator at Kendal Care Home, said: "We were very proud when Rex showed us. It is a great honour to display Rex's work here."

In the letter to the Queen, Rex said how him and his wife Carole are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this year.

Rex wrote "To the Queen who was crowned Monarch, she is celebrating her anniversary this year.

"My wife and I both in care homes are celebrating our 50 years of marriage."

Rex's paintings displayed around the Kendal Care Home

On June 24 Rex and his wife Carole, 79, who lives in Stonecross Care Home, will be celebrating their 50th anniversary alongside their family and friends.

The celebrations will be held at Kendal Care Home. Rex has left the party planning in the capable plans of the care home staff but said he was very much looking forward to seeing his wife again and celebrating.