Jubilee – live: Harry and Meghan met with cheers as they arrive at St Paul’s

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have arrived at St Paul’s for the special service of thanksgiving for the Queen’s Jubilee this morning.

Harry and Meghan were cheered by the crowd as they embarked on their first royal engagement since they left the UK for a new life in the US two years ago.

The Prince of Wales is set to represent his mother after the 96-year-old monarch pulled out of the high-profile occasion at St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

She suffered “discomfort” following a busy first day of festivities on Thursday, including a double balcony appearance and a beacon lighting.

The Queen, 96 and facing ongoing mobility difficulties, will be watching the ceremony on television on Friday as she rests at Windsor Castle.

Tributes will be paid to the Queen’s “70 years of faithful and dedicated service” as 2,000 people fill the historic church.

Public service is the theme of the event, with 400 people who are recipients of honours, including NHS and key workers who were recognised for their work during the pandemic, invited.

Key points

What’s on the schedule for the platinum jubilee today?

Queen will watch St Paul’s thanksgiving service from Windsor

Queen lights principal beacon at Windsor

Full schedule for platinum jubilee

The royals arrive at Buckingham Palace – in pictures

Meghan and Harry arrive

11:07 , Joe Middleton

A smiling Duke and Duchess of Sussex have arrived for their first royal engagement since they left the UK. There was a mixture of boos and cheers for the couple.

(BBC)

(Reuters)

Boris Johnson and Carrie take their seats

11:05 , Sam Rkaina

Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie in the cathedral (REUTERS)

The couple arrive for the service (PA)

A number of royals arrive by coach

11:03 , Joe Middleton

The first smattering of members of the Royal Family have arrived by coach. This includes Mike and Zara Tindall.

Boris Johnson met with boos and cheers as he arrives at St Paul’s

10:58 , Joe Middleton

The bells are chiming…

10:56 , Joe Middleton

The bells are ringing at St Paul’s Cathedral so the Royal Family’s arrival is imminent.

Story continues

Where are the royals sat for the service?

10:54 , Joe Middleton

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have seats in the second row of the congregation for the Service of Thanksgiving, with Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie and their husbands, and Lady Sarah Chatto, the daughter of Princess Margaret, and her family.

Harry and Meghan are seated behind the Earl and Countess of Wessex who are in the front row with their children, Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and Viscount Severn, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

Across the aisle, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, who have ornate chairs, have seats alongside them for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Princess Royal and her husband, Vice Admiral Tim Laurence.

More dignitaries arrive including David Cameron

10:48 , Sam Rkaina

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Sajid Javid (REUTERS)

Theresa May and her husband Philip May arrive for a service of thanksgiving (AP)

Former British Prime Minister Prime Minister David Cameron and his wife Samantha arrive for a service of thanksgiving (AP)

Member of the armed forces collapses on steps

10:39 , Sam Rkaina

Medics are attending a member of the armed forces who has just collapsed on the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral.

The man in uniform appears to have fainted in the line up while waiting for dignitaries to arrive.

Three medics spoke to him and he was escorted away from the parade to cheers from the public lined up to watch the event.

Tony Blair is among the former Prime Ministers attending

10:34 , Sam Rkaina

The Queen has seen 14 Prime Ministers during her lengthy reign, including David Cameron and John Major in the last 30 years.

Tony Blair has arrived this morning, along with his wife Cherie, and Gordon Brown is also in attendance.

Mr Blair and his wife arriving on Friday (REUTERS)

Lindsay Hoyle arrives for service

10:31 , Sam Rkaina

Speaker of the House Lindsay Hoyle has arrived for the service.

The Prime Minister and Keir Starmer are expected to follow shortly, with the royals due to arrive at around 11am.

indsay Hoyle arrives for the National Service of Thanksgiving held at St Paul’s Cathedral (REUTERS)

Archbishop of York calls service “slightly terrifying gig”

10:29 , Sam Rkaina

Tributes will be paid to the Queen’s “70 years of faithful and dedicated service” as 2,000 people including Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Cabinet ministers, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, first ministers of the devolved governments and former prime ministers fill the historic church.

Public service is the theme at the heart of the religious event, with 400 people who are recipients of honours, including NHS and key workers who were recognised for their work during the pandemic, invited.

The Archbishop of York will deliver the sermon and has described the prospect as a “slightly terrifying gig”.

The Most Rev Stephen Cottrell had to step in at the 11th hour after the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, contracted Covid 19.

He said of the Queen: “I am really sad she is not here because I want to say some personal things to her, thanksgiving for what she has given to our nation, but I am sure she will be watching on the telly.”

Hundreds of people gathered, some wearing Union flag hats and others hanging flags and bunting over the railings on the approach to the cathedral.

Guests have started arriving at St Paul’s Cathedral

10:22 , Saman Javed

Guests have begun to file into St Paul’s Cathedral ahead of this morning’s service.

Many have had their photographs taken outside the Great West Door, where members of the royal family are also due to enter the cathedral for the event.

Public service is at the heart of the event and over 400 recipients of Honours in the New Year or Birthday Honours lists have been invited in recognition of their contribution to public life.

The guests include NHS staff and key workers, teachers, public servants and representatives from the Armed Forces, charities and volunteer groups.

(Stefan Rousseau/PA)

(AP)

(Kirsty O’Connor/PA)

Guests have taken their seats inside the cathedral (PA)

How much money has the government set aside for Queen’s jubilee celebration?

10:20 , Saman Javed

In his March 2021 Budget, Chancellor Rish Sunak announced that £28 million is being set aside to fund the jubilee celebrations.

The National Lottery has also set up a platinum jubilee fund, which is making more than £22 million available to help communities across England celebrate.

The fund is providing grants of up to £50,000 to 70 community projects up and down the UK.

Additionally, Arts Council England has a Create Jubilee Fund which is supporting voluntary and community organisations in England to ensure creative and cultural activities are given centre stage during the bank holiday weekend.

The fund has been issuing grants of up to £10,000.

Samad Javed reports:

Queen’s platinum jubilee: How are the celebrations being funded?

The Queen will watch the St Paul’s thanksgiving service at home on TV

10:09 , Saman Javed

The Queen will be watching the service of thanksgiving on TV from Windsor Castle, it has been revealed.

Queen to watch service of thanksgiving from home

The news comes after Buckingham Palace issued a statement announcing that the monarch would not be attending the service.

It is believed she experienced episodic mobility issues during the daytime events on Thursday.

In a statement, Buckingham Palace said the Queen “greatly enjoyed” her birthday parade and flypast in London but “did experience some discomfort”.

The Prince of Wales will officially represent his mother at the service at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday.

Celebrations in Paris

10:00 , Saman Javed

French president Emmanuel Macron and British ambassador to France Menna Rawlings attended a “reviving the flame” ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris to mark the Platinum Jubilee.

(EPA)

Photographs from behind-the-scenes as St Paul’s Cathedral prepares to welcome royal family

09:50 , Saman Javed

The organisers of today’s service of thanksgiving have shared behind-the-scenes images as they prepare to welcome the royal family to St Paul’s Cathedral.

A team of “highly-skilled” embroiderers volunteered to create and repair the cathedral’s vestments for use at the service.

Crowds line up to catch a glimpse of the royal family

09:40 , Saman Javed

Spectators are lining up outside St Paul’s Cathedral where a thanksgiving service is being held later today, in the hope of catching a glimpse of members of the royal family.

One person waved a flag bearing the Queen (Getty Images)

Some people wore jubilee-themed flower crowns (PA)

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ‘want to be as low profile as possible’ during UK visit

09:30 , Saman Javed

Royal commentator Omid Scobie has said that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex want to keep a low profile during the platinum jubilee celebrations.

The couple’s presence, alongside their children Archie and Lilibet, marks the first time the family has returned to the UK since they stepped down as senior members of the royal family in 2020.

Omid Scobie, author of Finding Freedom, told BBC Breakfast: “I spoke with people close to the couple…who said that they want to be as low-profile as possible during this trip.

“It’s almost hard to believe, but I think yesterday Trooping the Colour was a great example. We didn’t really catch sight of them on TV cameras.”

Queen meets Lilibet for first time as Harry and Meghan reunite with monarch

09:21 , Saman Javed

The Queen has met her great-granddaughter, Lilibet Mountbatten Windsor, for the first time, according to reports.

Queen ‘meets Lilibet for first time’ in Windsor

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are in London this weekend with their two children for the monarch’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

According to royal commentator Omid Scobie, co-author of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s biography Finding Freedom, the couple introduced their youngest child to the Queen on Thursday in Windsor.

Buckingham Palace lit up with images of the Queen throughout her reign

08:55 , Saman Javed

Buckingham Palace was adorned with images of the Queen throughout her historic 70-year reign on Thursday evening.

As night fell in London, the royal residence was lit up with photographs of the monarch, including a portrait from her coronation in 1953.

What’s on the schedule for the platinum jubilee today?

08:34 , Saman Javed

Britain is gearing up for the second day of platinum jubilee celebrations, which will see most members of the royal family attend a service of thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Buckingham Palace has announced that the Queen will miss the event due to mobility issues, and the Duke of York will no longer attend after testing positive for Covid-19.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are expected to be present.

Kate Ng has today’s schedule here:

What’s on the schedule for the platinum jubilee today?

Meet the side hustlers thriving off the Queen’s platinum jubilee

08:00 , Peony Hirwani

A recent poll found that 63 per cent of Britons are planning to celebrate at some point over the 2 to 5 June weekend, which means there are lots of opportunities for people to put their skills to good use.

In the lead-up to the weekend, and as the UK continues to face a cost of living crisis, many people have begun using their skills as side hustles.

While some people are turning into princesses for kids, others are baking lavish cakes, or planning illustrious themed parties. Essentially: if you can imagine it, you can do it.

Meet the side hustlers thriving off the Queen’s platinum jubilee

Queen pulls out of thanksgiving service after ‘discomfort’ at Jubilee celebrations

07:00 , Peony Hirwani

The Queen will miss a national service of thanksgiving on Friday “with great reluctance” after experiencing “some discomfort” during Thursday’s platinum jubilee celebrations, Buckingham Palace has said.

The 96-year-old monarch will stay away from the event at St Paul’s Cathedral in London, as will her son Prince Andrew, who has contracted Covid-19.

In a statement, Buckingham Palace said the Queen “greatly enjoyed” her birthday parade and flypast in London but “did experience some discomfort”.

Queen pulls out of thanksgiving service after ‘discomfort’ at Jubilee celebrations

Charles and Camilla appear in EastEnders

06:00 , Jane Dalton

The Duchess of Cornwall has tied a ribbon for “all the victims of domestic abuse” during her appearance in a special EastEnders episode.

Charles and Camilla surprised the residents of Walford in the storyline after Mick Carter, played by Danny Dyer, decided to throw a street party for the Square.

EastEnders icon Sharon Watts, played by Letitia Dean, said it was a “proper royal seal of approval”.

In the episode, Charles unveiled a plaque commemorating the visit to Albert Square dated June 2.

The Jubilee episode of EastEnders featuring the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall (BBC/PA) (PA Media)

Jubilee episode of EastEnders featuring the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall (PA Media)

BBC, Jack Barnes/Kieron McCarron

Barack Obama: Queen makes world safer place

05:05 , Jane Dalton

Former US president Barack Obama was among those paying tribute to the Queen.

In a video message, he said he felt he had formed a special relationship with the monarch and that he had learnt so much from the example she set.

Her steadfastness stewardship of the UK had made the world a safer place, he added.

“Continue to reign supreme,” he said.

Prime minister to give Bible reading at thanksgiving service

04:04 , Jane Dalton

Boris Johnson will give a New Testament reading at the thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral in the morning.

Members of his Cabinet are also among the guests, along with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, first ministers of the devolved governments and former prime ministers.

The diplomatic world will be represented by high commissioners and ambassadors from across the world and also attending are governors general and clergy from world faiths.

The Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell will give the sermon after the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby tested positive for Covid-19.

The Dean of St Paul’s will conduct the service.

Young people representing countries where the Queen is head of state will lead the ‘Act of Commitment’ celebrating the life and reign of the monarch, led by the Reverend Robert Kozak.

During the day, one of the country’s largest bells, the Great Paul, will be rung before and after the service, the first time it will have been heard at a royal occasion.

Police join street parties

03:00 , Jane Dalton

Police forces in London joined in street parties to mark the festivities.

Key workers and volunteers to attend thanksgiving service

02:02 , Jane Dalton

Key workers, charity volunteers and members of the armed forces have been invited to the Queen’s service of thanksgiving in recognition of their contribution to public life.

More than 400 people, who have been making a difference either nationally or locally, are among the guests and many have been working tirelessly during the pandemic.

They will join members of the royal family at St Paul’s Cathedral to celebrate the monarch’s 70-year reign, although the Queen herself will not attend after experiencing “some discomfort” following previous mobility issues.

Senior members of the monarchy attending include the Prince of Wales, Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who will be joined by the extended royal family.

Charles will officially represent the Queen at the service.

Those invited in recognition of their service have all been recipients of honours in the New Year or Birthday Honours lists and their number also includes public servants and representatives from social enterprises and voluntary groups.

Away from the balcony photo

01:01 , Jane Dalton

More images of members of the royal family away from the palace balcony:

Meghan Markle arriving by car (Reuters)

Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex and Sophie, Countess of Wessex (REUTERS)

Prince George, Prince Louis, Princess Charlotte and the Duchess of Cambridge during Trooping the Colour (PA Wire)

Trafficking victim speaks of ‘hope’ Queen’s beacon represents

Thursday 2 June 2022 23:30 , Liam James

A Zambian woman who was trafficked by her own father has spoken of the “surreal” experience of lighting the UK’s first Platinum Jubilee beacon.

Alina Karimamusama, who works with the Queen‘s Commonwealth Trust, ignited the large brazier at Coutts bank in central London.

Known as the Queen‘s Bank because it has served every monarch since George IV, it hosted a party for the event with guests including broadcaster Andrew Marr.

More than 2,000 beacons will be lit across the UK and the Commonwealth, in what Ms Karimamusama said was a mark of “hope”.

“It represents the possibilities that young people from communities like mine, young people like me, can reach when they are given the right support,” she said.

Beacons are traditionally lit for royal occasions, having previously been used to mark the silver, golden and diamond jubilees of the Queen, along with Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897.

Song and dance troupe the West End Kids perform in front of a Platinum Jubilee beacon after it was lit at Coutts bank in central London (PA)

Beacons light up Northern Ireland for platinum jubilee

Thursday 2 June 2022 22:25 , Liam James

Beacons were lit in towns and cities across Northern Ireland after the Queen sparked the principal beacon at Windsor.

Sites included Titanic Belfast and St Columb’s Cathedral in Londonderry.

Further beacons were lit nearby at Castle Island, Topped Mountain and the Enniskillen Royal Grammar School.

Beacon at at Macartin’s Cathedral in Enniskillen (Reuters)

Bidens pay tribute to Queen on platinum jubilee

Thursday 2 June 2022 22:10 , Liam James

Joe and Jill Biden have offered their congratulations to the Queen on her platinum jubilee.

The US president said she had inspired people with her “selfless devotion and service” to the UK and the Commonwealth for 70 years.

“Throughout your reign, the relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States has grown stronger and closer than ever,” he said.

Mrs Biden said the joy the monarch had brought the American people through her visits to the US, together with the solidarity she had shown in times of tragedy, had “deepened the friendship and profound connection between our countries”.

“Joe and I were so touched by the generosity and welcome you showed to us when we visited you at Windsor Castle last year, during our first visit overseas as president and first lady,” she said.

The Bidens with the Queen at Windsor Castle last June when they visited the UK for the G7 summit (Getty)

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:59 , Liam James

An image of the Queen was projected onto Buckingham Palace ahead of the beacon lighting ceremony as crowds looked on from The Mall.

(Getty)

Tree of Trees lit up outside Buckingham Palace

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:50 , Liam James

The principal beacon lit by the Queen at Windsor sparked thousands around the globe, none more spectacular than the Tree of Trees outside Buckingham Palace in London.

Prince William was at the lighting ceremony to represent the royal family.

Commentators are saying the tree emphasises the royal family’s environmental bent.

Tree Of Trees created by designer Thomas Heatherwick (Getty)

Beacon lit in Pakistan

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:44 , Liam James

As the Queen lit the principal beacon at Windsor Castle, an expected 2,000 beacons were lit concurrently around the globe.

Here is the one in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan:

(Reuters)

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:42 , Liam James

The Queen waits before heading out to light the beacon at Windsor Castle (Reuters)

Lights go up at Windsor castle

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:39 , Liam James

(POOL/AFP/Getty)

Queen lights principal beacon at Windsor

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:36 , Liam James

The Queen has lit the principal jubilee beacon at Windsor Castle to celebrate 70 years on the throne.

The special ceremony is in honour of the four-day holiday weekend for the Queen’s platinum jubilee. More than 2,000 beacons are being lit across the UK, including one in each of the capital cities of Commonwealth countries.

At the event, the monarch symbolically touched the Commonwealth Globe of Nations in the castle Quadrangle.

The event marks her second appearance of the day, after she appeared on the balcony at Buckingham Palace for the Trooping the Colour event earlier on Thursday.

(Sky)

Read more below:

Army gives Queen handcrafted walking stick with unique engraving for jubilee

‘The most perfect day’

Thursday 2 June 2022 18:51 , Katy Clifton

Princess Eugenie has shared a touching photo of her family waving at the Queen’s platinum jubilee flyover.

Eugenie, 32, is pictured standing with husband Jack Brooksbank, 36, who is holding their one-year-old son August.

The smartly dressed trio are standing on a London rooftop waving to the aircraft, at what appeared to be a jubilee celebration party.

The images posted to Instagram, which include a video of the Red Arrows flying over as cheering can be heard in the background, is captioned: “The most perfect day to celebrate 70 years.”

Britons celebrating the Queen’s Jubilee divided over Harry, Meghan and Andrew’s roles

Thursday 2 June 2022 17:59 , Sam Rkaina

It may be the Queen’s Jubilee but the attention of some royal watchers was firmly on three other members of the family – Andrew, Harry and Meghan.

For very different reasons, the trio have proved divisive figures in recent years and in the build up to the celebrations there were questions over whether they would attend at all.

None of them made the cut for the all-important ‘balcony moment’ after Trooping the Colour.

The Queen limited that group to the so-called working royals, her Cambridge great-grandchildren and two youngest grandchildren – a move she took after “careful consideration,” the Palace said.

Click here for the full story.

The royal balcony was missing some noteable faces (PA Wire)

‘It’s her swan song’: Queen’s Jubilee ‘is moment of unity’ for UK after turbulent times

Thursday 2 June 2022 17:28 , Sam Rkaina

The Queen’s platinum jubilee is a much-needed “moment of unity” after years of political division, said spectators as royal celebrations got off to a rousing start in London.

Thousands of people draped in Union Jack flags, party hats and plastic tiaras lined the Mall on Thursday to catch a glimpse of the Trooping the Colour parade and military flypast, which kicked off a four-day weekend to mark 70 years since Elizabeth II’s coronation.

Royal appearences at the ceremony included the Queen on the Buckingham Palace balcony, flanked by members of her family – Charles, Camilla and Anne to her right, and the Cambridges to her left – while rapturous cheers of “hooray” erupted from the royal fans watching on below.

Click here for the full story as we speak to royal fans who turned out to the celebrations in London on Thursday.

Julie Bennett dressed as Britannia to mark the jubilee celebrations, which many supporters said was a chance to forget previous troubles the country has faced (The Independent)

Thousands toast jubilee in Trafalgar Square

Thursday 2 June 2022 17:01 , Amber Raiken

Crowds have gathered with picnic blankets and bottles of prosecco in Trafalgar Square for the Queen’s jubilee celebrations Thursday morning.

Since gates and access points to the Mall and St James Park were closed off, thousands questioned why the ticket system hadn’t been extended for more people to witness the parade.

“They had TVs here [in Trafalgar Square] for the cricket,” said Veronica Davies. “But they don’t have them for the queen? What’s that about? Outrageous.”

Jubilee party goes on despite grumbles as thousands toast Queen in Trafalgar Square

Prince Andrew tests positive for Covid

Thursday 2 June 2022 16:37 , Amber Raiken

The Buckingham Palace has announced that Prince Andrew has tested positive for Covid and will no longer be attending the jubilee service of Thanksgiving for the Queen.

The Duke of York was set to make an appearance at the service on 3 June, which was the only official platinum jubilee event that he was set to attend.

Although Prince Andrew saw the Queen in the last few days, he has been doing regular testing and has not met her in person since testing positive.

Prince Andrew tests positive for Covid ahead of Jubilee thanksgiving service

Barack Obama pays tribute to Queen

Thursday 2 June 2022 16:23 , Meredith Clark

Former President Barack Obama has paid tribute to the Queen in a video message which was broadcasted by the BBC.

The former president reflected on his memories with the Queen during his presidency: “Her Majesty put us at ease with her grace and generosity, so much so that I walked away thinking she actually reminded me a little bit of my grandmother and in the years since I would like to think Her Majesty and I have formed a special relationship of our own.”

Harry and Meghan seen in London for jubilee celebrations

Thursday 2 June 2022 15:49 , Tom Batchelor

Harry and Meghan have been spotted in London during their visit to take part in jubilee events this weekend.

The couple were seen with the Duke of Kent watching the flypast from the Major General’s Office overlooking Horse Guards Parade, and also together in a black car in central London.

(Emily Sevenoaks via REUTERS)

Thunderstorm fears for Saturday night

Thursday 2 June 2022 15:30 , Meredith Clark

The Met Office could issue a thunderstorm weather warning for London on Saturday night as crowds are expected to attend the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace.

Forecasters are predicting heavy, possibly thundery, showers during performances from the likes of Craig David and Alicia Keys outside Buckingham Palace.

Met Office meteorologist Simon Partridge said: “It’s being monitored but at the moment there’s not enough confidence to issue any warnings, but it’s one that’s going to be reviewed tomorrow morning as to whether or not we do require a thunderstorm warning simply because of the number of people we’re expecting in the capital on Saturday night, so that’s one area of slight concern in terms of weather causing some issues for festivities.”

The weather held out in London today for Trooping the Colour and the flypast.

(AP)

Here is the full story:

Met Office warns thunderstorms and heavy showers could spoil jubilee celebrations

Bidens congratulate Queen on ‘unprecedented 70 years of service’

Thursday 2 June 2022 15:00 , Tom Batchelor

PM thanks Queen for ‘unwavering duty and service’

Thursday 2 June 2022 14:45 , Tom Batchelor

Boris Johnson tweets a “thank you” to the Queen for “unwavering duty and service”.

Prince Louis reacts to flypast during royal family balcony appearance

Thursday 2 June 2022 14:30 , Tom Batchelor

McCartney and Beckham celebrate Queen

Thursday 2 June 2022 14:15 , Tom Batchelor

Sir Paul McCartney and David Beckham are among the stars celebrating the Queen as festivities for the Platinum Jubilee weekend get under way.

The Beatles star, 79, was knighted by the Queen in 1997, and shared a picture of himself with her from an event the year before as he congratulated her on her 70-year reign.

Alongside a picture on Instagram, Sir Paul wrote: “70 beautiful years of Queen Elizabeth the second. Congrats ma’ am! And thanks – Paul.”

David Beckham hailed the Queen’s reign as “remarkable” and wrote on Instagram: “Today, we celebrate our Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. 70 years of service and inspirational leadership of our country. Let’s come together and commemorate her remarkable reign with a great British party these next few days.”

Queen watches spectacular flypast over Buckingham Palace alongside royal family

Thursday 2 June 2022 13:57 , Tom Batchelor

The young prince could be seen holding his hands over his ears as the aircraft soared overhead.

The monarch smiled throughout the flypast and waved at the crowds before going back into the palace.

The Queen could be seen interacting with her great-grandson Prince Louis, who was standing next to her on the balcony.

You can watch the flypast here:

Queen watches spectacular flypast over Buckingham Palace alongside royal family

‘70′ in the sky

Thursday 2 June 2022 13:46 , Tom Batchelor

(Getty Images)

(POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

(AFP via Getty Images)

Balcony royal line-up

Thursday 2 June 2022 13:32 , Jane Dalton

The Queen waved to crowds as the royal family lined up on the Buckingham Palace balcony:

(REUTERS)

Household Cavalry delights Queen

Thursday 2 June 2022 13:29 , Jane Dalton

When the Queen made her appearance on the balcony, there was a delayed reaction from the crowds in The Mall and spectators sitting in the stands built for Saturday’s Party at the Palace.

A cheer went up when they spotted her on screens and she smiled as the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment passed the gates of Buckingham Palace.

The troopers took around five minutes to ride past and she could be seen chatting to her cousin the Duke of Kent, who had joined her on the balcony.

(POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

(REUTERS)

(Getty Images)

Queen enjoys private moment with princes

Thursday 2 June 2022 13:22 , Jane Dalton

The Prince of Wales stood on the Queen’s right-hand side and the pair could be seen chatting and smiling ahead of the flypast.

Huge cheers of “hooray” erupted from the thousands of royal fans on The Mall in front of the palace.

As aircraft approached, the Queen was looking ahead and smiling.

Meanwhile, her great-grandson Prince Louis waved towards the sky and could also be seen resting his chin in his hands.

The Queen interacted with Louis, who was standing next to her on the balcony.

The young prince held his hands over his ears as the aircraft soared overhead.

The monarch smiled throughout the flypast and waved at the crowds before going back into the palace.

(BBC)

(The Independent)

Queen watches flypast

Thursday 2 June 2022 13:12 , Jane Dalton

The royal family are watching a six-minute flypast of more than 70 aircraft features Apache helicopters, Typhoons and The Red Arrows.

Dozens of aircraft from the Royal Navy, the Army and Royal Air Force are soaring over Buckingham Palace.

(The Independent)

(BBC)

Duchesses watch parade together

Thursday 2 June 2022 13:01 , Jane Dalton

As the Guardsmen and officers passed by the Queen on the balcony, the monarch watched them parade as thousands lined The Mall.

The Jubilee Queen, head of the Armed Forces, carefully inspected the military from up high as she stood with her cousin, the Duke of Kent – Colonel of the Scots Guards.

The 96-year-old Queen was holding a walking stick and wearing the Guards’ Badge on her coat.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were among the guests who watched Trooping the Colour at Horse Guards.

They joined other royals including the Duchess of Cambridge and Duchess of Cornwall in the Duke of Wellington’s former office the parade ground.

(AP)

(BBC)

(AP)

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:57 , Jane Dalton

Crowds along The Mall in front of Buckingham Palace are celebrating a “once in a lifetime” moment as the Queen’s Jubilee parade kicked off.

Thousands have travelled from all over the UK to join the festivities in central London.

Three army veterans said they had travelled down from Aberdeenshire to celebrate the event.

Pointing to the palace, one said: “A wee wifey that lives in that house, there, and she has had that job for 70 years and she needs a wee bit of celebration, and we highlanders are here to wish her well.”

Emily Hurle, Lauren Stone and Amelia Jull, all 28, and Lauren Keith, 27, who moved to London from New Zealand, came to the Mall wearing tiaras and drinking cocktails.

“We’re here to celebrate the Queen, of course,” Ms Keith said.

Ms Hurle said: “I think she’s a fantastic leader and in 70 years she’s done exceedingly well.”

“Yup, she’s a legend. We love her,” Ms Stone added.

(PA)

Climate protesters blame ‘Crown’s support for meat and dairy’

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:48 , Jane Dalton

Climate and animal-rights campaign group Animal Rebellion said 25 of its supporters were involved in disruption “due to the Crown’s inaction on the climate emergency and their continued support for meat, fishing, and dairy, a leading contributor to climate breakdown”.

Police earlier arrested several protesters who had entered the ceremonial route on The Mall.

Some protesters sat down in the road before being pulled away by officers.

One of those sitting wore a golden crown around a hat, while another person walked ahead of the band holding a small poster which read “Reclaim Royal Land” above their head.

Queen joined by Duke of Kent on balcony

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:42 , Sam Rkaina

The Queen was joined by the Duke of Kent on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

Her Angela Kelly outfit included a dusky dove blue Charmelaine wool dres,s embellished with pearl and diamante trim around the neckline.

The monarch also wore the Guards’ Badge on her coat.

Grassy areas packed out around Buckingham Palace

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:33 , Tom Batchelor

(REUTERS)

Paul McCartney and David Beckham praise the Queen

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:31 , Sam Rkaina

Sir Paul McCartney and David Beckham are among the stars celebrating the Queen as festivities for the Platinum Jubilee weekend get under way.

The Beatles star, 79, was knighted by the Queen in 1997, and shared a picture of himself with her from an event the year before as he congratulated her on her 70-year reign.

Alongside a picture on Instagram, Sir Paul wrote: “70 beautiful years of Queen Elizabeth the second. Congrats ma’ am! And thanks.”

Spice Girl Geri Halliwell shared two posts on Instagram to commemorate the occasion.

Among the pictures shared by Halliwell was one of her alongside her fellow Spice Girl bandmates – Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton, Mel B and Mel C – from 1997 when they met the monarch at the Royal Variety Performance.

They had performed as part of the show, staged at London’s Victoria Palace Theatre, in celebration of the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh’s Golden Wedding Anniversary.

Penny Lancaster shared a photo showing her husband, Sir Rod Stewart, in front of the gates at Buckingham Palace, ahead of him performing as part of Saturday night’s Party at the Palace concert, which will be broadcast on the BBC.

She captioned the picture: “Excitement and nervous for Saturday night £partyatthepalace”.

Sir Rod, who was given a knighthood in the 2016 Honours list, said previously of performing at the concert: “Queen Elizabeth has given incredible service to the United Kingdom over the last 70 years and I’m delighted to be able to join her in celebrating her Platinum Jubilee with the Party at the Palace.

“She has demonstrated to the world what a special person she is and how lucky we are to have her. This will be a momentous occasion.”

Other names on the bill for the concert include Queen + Adam Lambert who will open the concert, while Diana Ross will close the event, marking her first UK live performance in some 15 years.

Sir Paul McCartney was made a Companion of Honour by the Queen during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace (Yui Mok/PA) (PA Archive)

Queen appears on balcony to review soldiers after Trooping the Colour

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:28 , Jon Sharman

The Queen has stepped out on the balcony of Buckingham Palace following the Trooping the Colour parade.

The monarch was joined by the Duke of Kent as soldiers filed past.

The Queen wears blue as she delights crowds in balcony appearance

Trooping the Colour soldiers march down Mall

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:23 , Tom Batchelor

(PA)

Princess Charlotte stops Prince Louis’ enthusiastic waving

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:16 , Furvah Shah

As Prince William and Kate Middleton’s three children appeared in the Trooping the Colour parade for the first time, Prince Louis seemed extra enthusiastic about the event, writes Furvah Shah.

As the three children waved at the large crowds, Prince Louis continued excitedly to which Princess Charlotte gently moved her younger brothers hand down.

Here is the story:

Princess Charlotte stops Prince Louis’ enthusiastic waving during jubilee parade

Prince Louis wears sailor suit similar to one worn by William in 1985

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:12 , Sam Rkaina

Prince Louis has worn a sailor’s suit to the Queen’s birthday parade, similar to one worn by his father when he was around the same age in 1985.

When Prince William was three years old, he wore a pale blue sailor’s suit to the Trooping the Colour parade at the time, which marked the Queen’s 59th birthday.

On Thursday, four-year-old Louis wore a strikingly similar sailor’s suit that was white with blue trim while riding in the royal procession with his mother, the Duchess of Cambridge, the Duchess of Cornwall, and his two older siblings.

Click here for the full story.

A young Prince William in 1985 (left) and his youngest son, Prince Louis, at the Trooping the Colour 2022 parade (PA)

Kate Middleton wears Diana’s earrings to parade

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:11 , Sam Rkaina

The Duchess of Cambridge has worn her late mother-in-law’s earrings to the Trooping the Color parade today.

Kate Middleton was spotted wearing a pair of diamond and sapphire earrings once worn by Princess Diana, during the Queen’s birthday parade.

Kate was joined in the carriage for the royal procession by her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, along with the Duchess of Cornwall.

Click here for the full story.

(Getty/PA)

Duchess of Cambridge watching from Duke of Wellington’s former office

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:06 , Tom Batchelor

The Duchess of Cambridge could be seen watching Trooping from the Duke of Wellington’s former office.

She could be seen chatting to someone out of view and earlier appeared to be chatting with the Duchess of Cornwall.

(REUTERS)

Good weather draws the crowds in London

Thursday 2 June 2022 12:03 , Sam Rkaina

Huge crowds have turned out in the sunshine for the first day of the celebrations.

London is expected to see highs of 20C and plenty of sunshine today before reaching 23C on Friday.

People attend celebrations of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee, along The Mall (REUTERS)

Members of the public in the stands watching the parade (PA)

Song from Final Fantasy video game played at platinum jubilee

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:57 , Tom Batchelor

A song from one of the Final Fantasy video games has been played at the Platinum Jubilee.

Greg Evans has the story:

A theme from Final Fantasy was just played at the Platinum Jubilee

Boris and Carrie Johnson at Trooping the Colour

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:52 , Tom Batchelor

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, dressed in a morning suit, and his wife Carrie, dressed in a cerise pink outfit with frill detail and large matching hat, watched Trooping the Colour.

Here the prime minister is leaving Downing Street.

(PA)

And here the couple are at the jubilee event.

(BBC)

Louis and Charlotte arrive at Horse Guards Parade

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:47 , Tom Batchelor

The duke and duchess’ younger two children, Louis and Charlotte, peered out of the central window at Horse Guards Parade as Louis pointed out towards the ceremony.

They arrived at Horse Guards Parade alongside their mother and step-grandmother in a carriage as part of the Trooping the Colour.

(REUTERS)

The royals arrive at Buckingham Palace – in pictures

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:35 , Sam Rkaina

Princess Charlotte, Prince George and Prince Louis ride in a carriage during the Trooping the Colour parade (REUTERS)

Princess Anne on horseback (Getty Images)

George, Louis and Charlotte (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Charles arrives in full military regalia

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:27 , Sam Rkaina

Trooping the Colour, also known as the Birthday Parade – marks the start of four days of festivities honouring the Queen.

Thousands of wellwishers are draped in Union flags, party hats and plastic tiaras having flocked to central London for the spectacle.

On horseback at the rear in their uniforms are the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Cambridge and the Princess Royal, in their military regalia – including new Platinum Jubilee medals.

The Queen, meanwhile, is watching from Buckingham Palace, waiting to take a salute from the balcony accompanied by her cousin the Duke of Kent, Colonel of the Scots Guards, when the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and the Guards make their way back from the parade ground.

Scenes on The Mall as the Royal Procession prepares to leave Buckingham Palace for the Trooping the Colour ceremony at Horse Guards Parade (PA)

Prince Charles arrives to honour his mother the Queen (Getty Images)

Macron pays tribute to Queen in jubilee message

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:25 , Tom Batchelor

In a video message to mark the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, French President Emmanuel Macron, addressing the Queen, said: “Madame: During the past 70 years, the President of the French Republic has relied on very few constants at the international level.

“Times have changed, Europe has evolved, our continent is again experiencing war. Through these transformations, your devotion to our alliance and to our friendship has remained, and has helped build the trust that brought freedom and prosperity to our continent.

“Since your first state visit to France, when you were welcomed to Paris by a generation who, alongside your Army, Navy and Air Force, had fought for the freedom we now enjoy, you have visited us many times. You have shared our joys and seen the deep affection and admiration that the people of France have for you.

“You have also visited the graves where so many of your young men lie and seen the respect and honour we constantly pay to those who sent from your homes to protect ours.

“You are the golden thread that binds our two countries. The proof of the unwavering friendship between our nations.

“Your first toast to one of my predecessors, Rene Coty, reminded us that trust and understanding should endure forever. Your words were matched by a lifetime of devotion to our alliance.”

Police pictured escorting protesters away

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:16 , Tom Batchelor

Police escort protesters away from the Mall during the Queen’s Birthday Parade (AFP via Getty Images)

Royals arrive in series of carriages

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:15 , Sam Rkaina

The royals have been arriving in a series of carriages to watch the parade.

In the first carriage was the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

In the second was the Earl of Wessex, the Countess of Wessex, the Lady Louise Mountbatten Windsor and the Viscount Severn.

The Duke of Gloucester, the Duchess of Gloucester and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence were in the third.

Riding horses were the Prince of Wales on George, the Duke of Cambridge on Derby and the Princess Royal on Sir John.

Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex (PA)

Kate waves to the crowds (Getty Images)

Queen awarded diamond encrusted RuPeter Badge

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:10 , Tom Batchelor

Cambridge children take part in Trooping the Colour parade for first time

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:07 , Sam Rkaina

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s three children have joined the royal procession in the Trooping the Colour parade for the first time.

Prince George, eight, Princess Charlotte, seven, and Prince Louis, four, sat in the carriage with their mother, Kate Middleton, and the Duchess of Cornwall as they passed cheering crowds.

The procession marks the arrival of the royal family at the parade, kicking off the four-day celebrations for the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

Click here for the full story.

Prince George with his mother and Camilla (PA)

Royal fans line The Mall

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:06 , Tom Batchelor

(AP)

(AFP via Getty Images)

Kate Middleton and Camilla join the celebrations

Thursday 2 June 2022 11:02 , Sam Rkaina

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s children have been spotted taking part in their first carriage procession as celebrations marking the Queen’s 70-year reign began.

Cheers went up from thousands of spectators in The Mall as they caught sight of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis with proud parent Kate and the Duchess of Cornwall.

The traditional carriage procession left Buckingham Palace ahead of Trooping the Colour, also known as the Birthday Parade, that marked the start of four day of festivities honouring the Queen’s 70-year reign.

Kate and Camilla arrive for the celebrations (PA)

Members of the Royal Guard take part in the Trooping the Colour

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:56 , Tom Batchelor

Members of the Royal Guard take part in the Trooping the Colour parade at Buckingham Palace (REUTERS)

Police on The Mall shortly before the procession (PA)

In their own words – how Britons celebrated the Queen’s coronation

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:55 , Tom Batchelor

It felt, for many, like the beginning of a new era, writes Colin Drury.

When the Queen ascended to the throne on 6 February 1952, it was widely portrayed as the start of a new dawn for Great Britain. In a country still scarred by the horrors of the Second World War, this 25-year-old monarch suggested a brighter future: the second Elizabethan Age.

Her official coronation 16 months later on 2 June 1953, was held in just this spirit.

Read on here:

Bunting, beer and Blanco: How Britons celebrated the Queen’s coronation

Met says ‘several’ arrests made

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:49 , Tom Batchelor

Several arrests have been made after some people attempted to enter the ceremonial route on The Mall before Trooping the Colour, the Metropolitan Police said.

We will bring you more updates on this as we get them.

Protesters booed by jubilee crowds as they’re hauled away after interrupting parade

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:47 , Tom Batchelor

Royal Parks urges people to avoid St James Park

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:40 , Tom Batchelor

The Royal Parks has tweeted: “Crowds have flocked to St James’s Park for Trooping the Colour and public viewing areas are now at full capacity.

“Please do not head to St James’s Park but enjoy the Jubilee celebrations elsewhere.”

Organisational chaos overshadows start of jubilee event

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:33 , Colin Drury

Organisational chaos has dogged the beginning of the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations with thousands of people blocked from seeing the Trooping of The Colour parade.

The Queen is due to pass down the Mall on Thursday morning as part of the ceremony. To mark her 70 years on the throne.But police and security have closed all access points to the route preventing thousands of people from getting a glimpse of the monarch.

In one incident at St George’s Steps, visitors momentarily feared being crushed when security staff forced close a gate as hundreds of people tried to get in.

The action was taken despite huge amounts of space appearing to be free on the pavements lining The Mall.

Staff at different entrances have repeatedly directed visitors to other entrance points – only for those to be closed as well.

One mother said she had walked two miles to St George’s Gate after being directed there from Green Park – only to be told to go back to Green Park.

“It’s outrageous,” said Mario Stavrou, a London hotelier who had come along to see the event. “What light does this show our city in? People have come here to experience this once-in-lifetime event – and they are being denied access with absolutely no help.”

Another visitor from Milton Keynes added: “I thought this was supposed to be a celebration for everyone. I wish I’d stayed home.”

Animal rebellion protesters disrupt Trooping the Colour

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:27 , Tom Batchelor

Animal Rebellion protesters have attempted to disrupt the beginning of the Trooping the Colour procession on the Mall.

The group are urging for an immediate transition to a plant-based future and rewilding.

A protester wearing a crown was seen running out and then being dragged away by police.

Beau King Houston, amongst those taking action, said: “The royal family has had decades to lead the way on a just transition to plant-based farming and has failed to do so.

“This transition is common sense and simple, we all win. 76 per cent of currently farmed land could be rewilded and absorb carbon from the atmosphere.

“This would restore nature, spare billions of animals, and present a solution to the climate emergency, all in one act.”

Queen’s outfits on display at Tussauds to celebrate platinum jubilee

Thursday 2 June 2022 10:25 , Tom Batchelor

A selection of outfits made by royal dressmakers for waxwork figures of the Queen will be on display at Madame Tussaud’s from Friday 3 June.

As part of celebrations to mark the platinum jubilee, Tussauds will showcase seven of the outfits worn by figures of the Queen throughout her reign.

Tussauds has created 24 figures of the Queen in total during her 70 years on the throne.

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