Royal death: Queen’s cousin Lady Elizabeth Shakerley dies aged 79

Her Majesty the Queen’s close friend Lady Elizabeth Shakerley passed away on Sunday at the age of 79. She was also the monarch’s first cousin.

Lady Elizabeth, who was also known professionally as Lady Anson, died in the early hours of Sunday morning, according to The Daily Express, and was surrounded by her loved ones.

Anson helped to plan many of Queen Elizabeth’s private parties and set up her own company, named Party Planners, in 1960. She also organised parties for the likes of Sting and Mick Jagger and even hosted Margaret Thatcher’s 70th birthday party.

In 2012 she opened up to Tatler magazine about hosting royal parties and described her cousin as the “most meticulous host”.

“She checks every dining-room setting, every flower, every guest bedroom and always chooses her own menu,” she said. “We could all learn something from that.”

Lady Elizabeth was born in Windsor Castle in 1941 to parents Thomas Anson, Viscount Anson, and Anne Bowes-Lyon, who went on to become Princess Anne of Denmark when she remarried.

Lady Elizabeth leaves behind one daughter and two grandchildren.

Tributes poured in for Anson online, with Sky News commentator Alastair Bruce writing: “Early this morning The Lady Elizabeth Shakerley (Liza) died. She was great friend & cousin to The Queen, who made her a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order a few months ago. We adored her too @StephenKnott_Somehow #AllSaintsDay seems entirely fitting.”

While journalist Micheline Maynard said: “You might also know her as Lady Elizabeth Anson. A fantastic hostess and party planner, always with a delightful story to tell. She will be missed. RIP.”

Lady Elizabeth is survived by her daughter and two grandchildren.