VISITORS to the region’s tourism capital were caught off-guard when they found themselves unexpectedly rubbing shoulders with the Queen.

But bows and curtseys were unnecessary for it was lookalike Margaret Southcoat who was carrying out her own official visit to York.

Margaret, from Hull, was in the city to promote the York Maze Fireworks Spectacular on November 5, which this year has the theme Best of British.

Owner Tom Pearcy said: “2012 has been a fantastic year with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the success of Team GB at the Olympics.

“Who better to launch the fireworks than Her Majesty? Unfortunately she wasn’t available so we have the next best thing in Yorkshire’s very own Queen lookalike.”

He added: “We’re celebrating an amazing year with a spectacular bonfire night event that will showcase the best of British music.

“Expect rousing anthems and lots of red, white and blue. It’s also an opportunity to give those Union Jack flags another outing and come dressed in red, white and blue for the party.”