God save the Queen - 16th February 2022

Queen Elizabeth II has become Britain's longest serving monarch. She acceded to the throne on 6th February 1952, following the death of her father, King George VI. She was just 25 years old at the time and now, at 95, she is marking 70 years of her reign.

Traditionally, the Queen marks her father's death and her accession to the throne quietly at her estate in Sandringham, in the East of England, where her father died. However, in a break with tradition, the Queen released a statement.

She expressed her wish that Prince Charles' wife would become Queen Consort when Charles succeeds her to the throne. She also hopes that the public will give Charles and Camilla as much support as they have given her during her long reign.

Whilst accession day is marked quietly, this is in stark contrast to the plans for the platinum jubilee celebrations. A four day public holiday has been declared in June, with events similar to those held for her silver, gold and diamond jubilees.

This will be the first jubilee that the Queen has celebrated without her beloved husband, Prince Philip. However, it is hoped that with Covid restrictions lifted the public will once again be able to take to the streets in celebration of a well-loved monarch.