Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth 11's grandmother

Her mother sounds terrific!

When my mother was a child she saw Queen Mary who came to open the new University building in Bristol (at least I think that was the occasion). She said she looked so stern, not a glimmer of a smile or any warmth but I think she was rather known to be formidable.

Except for the height I think Elizabeth II bore a striking resemblance to her and in mannerisms too. Take a look at old photos of Mary and you'll see what I mean.

Elizabeth II definitely did look like her grandma. She also took on board her work ethic and dedication to duty because she spent a lot of time with her as a child.

Queen Mary lives on in her namesake ocean liner, a beautiful floating hotel in Long Beach. It's the only liner of that generation to survive. The others were all sunk or scrapped.

Hugo Vickers wrote an excellent biography of Queen Mary. I strongly recommend it. It brought her and her times vividly to life.

Aveline Hugo Vickers is one of the people talking about Queen Mary's life in this programme.

They really couldn't not include him. He's the real expert on Queen Mary. Seriously, get that book.