2-879-347 - Historic England Archive/Heritage Images

Bull Ring Centre, Birmingham, 29/05/1964. HRH Prince Philip exiting the new Woolworth's store at the Bull Ring Centre on the day of the opening ceremony. On 29th May 1964, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, opened the Bull Ring Centre. The Duke toured the site, meeting various people along the way and unveiling a commemorative plaque in the Centre Court. A formal lunch was then held in his honour at the Mecca Banqueting Hall; part of the new Bull Ring development. Approximately 400 guests attended including the Lord Mayor of Birmingham; Alderman F Price (seen in this image), and William Kirby Laing. The ceremony was held on Oak Apple Day, an old public holiday on 29th May commemorating the restoration of the English monarchy. An oak apple spray was therefore presented to the Duke to wear on the lapel of his suit jacket.