In pictures: Royal items auction

William Tallon, known as Backstairs Billy, served the royal family for 52 years. He died last November, and 700 items of royal memorabilia he collected have been auctioned in Colchester, Essex.

He and the Queen Mother became very close over the years. Not every servant got to dance with their royal employer. This photo was in a bundle that sold for £1,700.

Mr Tallon received many letters from the Queen Mother. This one thanked him for nursing her beloved corgi Geordie shortly before the dog died.

Also under the hammer was an important set of six royal service medals awarded to Mr Tallon for his time as steward and page to the Queen Mother.

Sold for £5,000, a letter from Princess Diana thanking Mr Tallon for a gift following the birth of Prince William. She wrote: "We are not sure at the moment what has hit us, except a very strong pair of lungs!"

This inscribed silver snuff box was given to Mr Tallon by the Queen Mother in recognition of "40 years of faithful service".

Mr Tallon had dozens of photographs of the Queen Mother. This framed shot is signed and dated "Elizabeth R 1969".

Also sold was his dress waistcoat with gilt brass crown buttons, worn for official functions. Beneficiaries of his will, including a charity, will be announced in two weeks.

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