VISIT TO CORK:THE QUEEN will receive her first welcome to Cork before her feet touch the ground if she catches sight of a massive sign painted on a golf course 7,000 feet below her flight path.
Sportsground contractors began work on the 450-square metre sign on the fairway at Frankfield Golf Course in Douglas early yesterday.
The sign bears the royal crest accompanied by the message: "Welcome to Cork Queen Elizabeth II, May 20th, 2011."
The Queen's flight path from the Rock of Cashel in Co Tipperary to Cork airport will take her directly over the sign.
The brainchild of Peter Kelly of Weddings by Franc, the sign has been painted on the first fairway of the popular suburban course.
Manager of the club Coleman Ryan said he was delighted for the club to be part of the celebrations. "It's a massive red square with big white lettering, it's going to look great," he said.
The Queen's visit to Cork will be more relaxing and enjoyable than previous days of her Irish visit, according to Mr Kelly.
"This is the most enjoyable part of the visit for her, there has been a lot of protocol en route but in Cork there will be a more relaxed atmosphere," he said.
Mr Kelly, who works with Cork City Council as a creative adviser, said flowers from local gardens will form part of a beautiful bouquet to be presented to the Queen that will include lace and crochet roses crafted by lacemaker Veronica Stuart. "We are using flowers picked from local gardens in the bouquet, to make it that bit more special," Mr Kelly said.
A hamper full of products traditionally sold at the English Market will be presented, along with a new book detailing the history of the shopping district, which received a big facelift ahead of the royal arrival.
President of UCC Dr Michael Murphy will give the Queen a gift of a contemporary lace scarf, featuring elements of algebra incorporated into the design. Hand-sewn by Cork artist Carmel Creaner to acknowledge the role of Queen Victoria in the foundation of the college, the scarf is inspired by mathematics master George Boole, the first professor of maths at Queen's College Cork.