Katherine Jenkins has recalled the moment the Queen guided her through a meal's etiquette, saving the singer from embarrassment.

The gesture made the singer, who performed at Sandringham in Norfolk on Friday, love the monarch "even more" as she had given advice in such a "caring way".

Jenkins, 41, took part in the special outdoor concert at Sandringham for the jubilee alongside The Military Wives Choirs.

Reflecting on her most treasured memory with the Queen, the operatic singer remembered a time she was invited to an intimate lunch at Buckingham Palace when she was in her mid-20s.

Eastern Daily Press: The government has issued advice on the dos and don'ts during the period of national mourningThe government has issued advice on the dos and don'ts during the period of national mourning (Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

She explained that after the meal was served she panicked as she was given a large glass bowl of water and a selection of fruit which she had "no clue what to do" with.

Jenkins said: "I looked across at Her Majesty and sensing my unease she caught my eye as if to say 'follow me'.

"I watched her take the fruit, wash it in the water and dried it off with the gauze.

"I was so grateful because she did it in such a caring way to save me embarrassment. I loved her even more after that."

Welsh star Jenkins will also be seen in Sunday's Songs Of Praise: Platinum Jubilee Special airing on the BBC.

Later that day, she will be among the celebrities to travel in decorated open-top double-decker buses for the decade-by-decade celebrations as part of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant.

The singer, who has performed for the Queen on many occasions, said that knowing the monarch is watching her perform always makes it "more nerve-wracking".

She added: "Singing for her means you really need to bring out your best performance.

Eastern Daily Press: Queen Elizabeth II cuts a cake to celebrate the start of the Platinum Jubilee during a reception at Sandringham on February 5Queen Elizabeth II cuts a cake to celebrate the start of the Platinum Jubilee during a reception at Sandringham on February 5 (Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

"It doesn't matter how many times I perform for her or meet her, whether it's in front of thousands or just at a small dinner, I will never be blase about it.

"It's a huge honour and lovely to be asked."

Jenkins also offered her congratulations to the Queen on her historic 70 years on the throne, adding: "You have done us all proud and I hope these celebrations showcase the deep love, respect & gratitude the nation has for you. God Save The Queen."

Our Queen's Platinum Reign magazine is a tribute to Her Majesty's life and 70 years of service drawn from our archive. Find out more here.