DORSET band The Usual Suspects can now add the immortal words “By Royal Appointment” to their CV after being booked to play to HM The Queen and Prince Philip at the opening of Goldy’s Energy Centre near Lytchett Matravers last week.

As the Royal party met local dignitaries, Prince Philip spoke to the members of the band.

“He said to us: ‘Shouldn’t you be making a noise now?’ So we did!” says the band’s bassist Martin Holloway.

“As it was his birthday the previous day, we played and sang Happy Birthday to the Prince during which he looked over and jokingly drew his hand across his throat.

“I think he was a little embarrassed about having his birthday recognised but I have to say it’s a little concerning when someone so close to the throne makes a cut throat gesture to you – I thought we might be off to the Tower!

“Anyway, all went well – though it would have been nice to have the Queen up doing air guitar!”

Members of the band also perform with Katie Setterfield, the winner of the BBC’s The One and Only.

  • The Usual Suspects play Poole Quay on June 25 and O’Neill’s, Bournemouth, on June 26.