Royalty came to Walsall Manor Hospital today in the shape of the Queen of the Black Country Doreen Tipton who turned on the Christmas lights.

Doreen joined the Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Paul Bott, and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust Chief Executive Richard Beeken to flick the switch before joining in with carols, accompanied by Walsall Brass Band.

She had the crowd in stitches as she regaled them with tales of her three labours – one of them requiring an “Emergency Bavarian” to produce daughters Trojan, Tangerine and Trollop.

“I was suffering with the condition cowardice and was in labour for seven weeks,” she joked.

“Anyway, peace on earth and good riddance to all men. But seriously, thank you to all the wonderful staff here.”

The Mayor of Walsall also wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Richard Beeken said: “Our first Festive Friday was made even more fantastic by the presence of royalty – the Queen of the Black Country, Doreen Tipton.

“Er had her best body warmer on and everyone thought she was absolutely bostin. Er lit up the main atrium almost as much as the Christmas lights!”

Today’s event marked the first of three Festive Fridays at the hospital.

Earlier today visitors and patents were entertained by singers and carollers and a team of staff performed as “Sister Dora Act” recreating their winning turn from the annual Trust’s Got Talent contest organised by Walsall Healthcare’s Well Wishers charity. A host of stalls brimming with gift ideas also filled the main atrium.