WHEN Worcester teen Emma Markovic posted a handmade Christmas card to the Queen, little did she expect to receive a response.

But on Christmas Eve, a letter from Buckingham Palace dropped through the 13-year-old's letter box at home in Dines Green, passing on Her Majesty's thanks.

Delighted Emma, who is in year eight at Christopher Whitehead School, said: "I was surprised and really happy. I just wanted to wish her happy Christmas."

A long-time fan of the Royal family, Emma put a lot of effort into making the card which featured a fluffy Christmas stocking design.

The student, who celebrated her birthday in December, said receiving the response made Christmas a bit "more special" this year.

The letter, written by Lady-in-Waiting to the Queen Susan Hussey, said: "The Queen wishes me to write and thank you for the lovely handmade card you have sent her for Christmas, in which you tell Her Majesty a little about yourself and your ambitions.

"The Queen is most grateful for your kind words and is touched by the loyalty and support she has received throughout her long reign.

"I hope you had a very happy birthday on 9th December and I am to send you Her Majesty's warm thanks for your thought for The Queen at this time."

Emma's mum Caroline Markovic, said: "I read it to her, I was almost crying. She was over the moon with it.

"She was really chuffed and felt special."

When the Queen visited Worcester to officially open The Hive in 2012, Emma - who has an older brother called Ben - went along to catch a glimpse of her.

"She has always liked the Royal family, she has always been interested in what they do," added Mrs Markovic.