Post by MadameConcorde on Mar 16, 2016 14:53:25 GMT -5
The Princess of Sealand - self-proclaimed ruler of world's smallest independent state whose kingdom was North Sea platform the size of two tennis courts - dies aged 86
Joan Bates was given the title 'Princess of Sealand' by her husband after he took over a platform in the North Sea in 1967
The couple ruled over the 'Principality' as an independent state for decades
Sealand has its own flag, currency, stamps and national anthem
Mrs Bates, 86, has died in an Essex nursing home after a long illness
The 'Princess of Sealand' who ruled over a tiny platform in the middle of the North Sea has died aged 86.
Joan Bates was given the royal title for her birthday by her husband Roy after he occupied the platform in 1967 and declared it to be an independent country.
The Principality of Sealand continues to act as a sovereign state to this day - even issuing its own currency with Mrs Bates's head on it.
The Princess passed away at a nursing home in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex last week after a long illness.
Her son Michael, 63 - the current Prince of Sealand - paid tribute to his mother and her role in establishing the rogue principality nearly 50 years ago.
read more + pictures:
www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3493073/The-Princess-Sealand-kingdom-North-Sea-platform-dies-aged-86.html
Long Live the Principality of Sealand
Joan Bates was given the title 'Princess of Sealand' by her husband after he took over a platform in the North Sea in 1967
The couple ruled over the 'Principality' as an independent state for decades
Sealand has its own flag, currency, stamps and national anthem
Mrs Bates, 86, has died in an Essex nursing home after a long illness
The 'Princess of Sealand' who ruled over a tiny platform in the middle of the North Sea has died aged 86.
Joan Bates was given the royal title for her birthday by her husband Roy after he occupied the platform in 1967 and declared it to be an independent country.
The Principality of Sealand continues to act as a sovereign state to this day - even issuing its own currency with Mrs Bates's head on it.
The Princess passed away at a nursing home in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex last week after a long illness.
Her son Michael, 63 - the current Prince of Sealand - paid tribute to his mother and her role in establishing the rogue principality nearly 50 years ago.
read more + pictures:
www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3493073/The-Princess-Sealand-kingdom-North-Sea-platform-dies-aged-86.html
Long Live the Principality of Sealand