Painting of flotilla ruined by Diamond Jubilee downpours

He was there to capture a unique moment in British history – but South Staffordshire artist Derek Baker's big jubilee day was ruined when he got a right royal soaking.

Mr Baker was one of just 20 artists from around the country specially selected by the BBC to paint the Queen on her Diamond Jubilee flotilla.

The 51-year-old was given a prime spot on Millennium Bridge from where to capture the scene and all was going swimmingly. Until the heavens opened.

"It was one hell of a challenge," Mr Baker said.

"You couldn't even keep your brush level or keep the canvas still.

"I've never painted in conditions like it, but we cracked on and did the best we could." Unfortunately the gusty winds and heavy rain were too much to cope with and Mr Baker, who was even forced to tie his easel to the bridge, couldn't prevent the painting from being badly smeared and damaged.

And weather experts today said the gloomy conditions that marred the Pageant on the Thames will continue across the UK for the rest of the month.

With summer on standby, torrential rain and gale-force winds will engulf the country and temperatures are set to remain rooted at around 15C (59F).

Mr Baker is now planning to restore his painting to its full glory for a potential follow-up programme being made by the BBC – and he's also hoping the Queen might get to look at the finished pieces.

Mr Baker, from Wombourne, added: "It was a real shame about the weather but I wasn't too despondent. It was still a great occasion.

"I've got a few weeks to finish it now and the BBC will then put on an exhibition of the work.The beauty is I get time to repaint it and do a good job."

He was using acrylic for the piece designed to capture the fun and energetic essence of the crowd, with the Queen and Prince Philip among them.

Visit www.derekbaker.co.uk to view a selection of Mr Baker's work.