Jubliee – live: Queen pulls out of Epsom Derby as Lilibet celebrates first birthday

The Queen will not attend the Epsom Derby today after also missing the platinum jubilee thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday.

Buckingham Palace has confirmed that her Majesty is expected to watch the major sporting event on television at Windsor Castle, after experiencing “discomfort” following a busy first day of festivities on Thursday.

It comes after the Archbishop of York has praised the Queen for her “staunch constancy” as well as continuing to be faithful to the pledges she made when ascending to the throne, during a historic platinum jubilee service.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will visit Cardiff, Wales today ahead of a jubilee concert at Cardiff Castle while Prince Edward and wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex will visit Northern Ireland for festivites.

Stars and members of the royal family will take to the stage for the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace concert, aired live from 7.30pm outside Buckingham Palace in celebration of the Queen’s 70-year reign.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s daughter, Lilibet, also celebrates her first birthday today at Frogmore Cottage, Windsor.

Key points

• Queen pulls out of Epsom Derby appearance

• Queen lights principal beacon at Windsor

• Full schedule for platinum jubilee

• Spectator who booed Boris Johnson says PM should have stayed at home

• The royals arrive at Buckingham Palace – in pictures

• Meghan and Harry arrive

Edward and Sophie to visit to Northern Ireland

09:40 , Furvah Shah

Prince Edward and wife Sophie, Countess of Wessex will visit Northern Ireland today as a part of ongoing celebrations for the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

They will reportedly meet children taking part in street performances as well as art and craft sessions in the region.

Will and Kate visit Cardiff for jubilee concert

09:21 , Furvah Shah

Prince William and Kate Middleton are due to appear in Cardiff today ahead of a platinum jubilee concert at Cardiff Castle.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will meet with the performers and crew behind the event, which will feature performers such as Bonnie Tyler and will be hosted by Aled Jones and Shan Cothi.

The events organisers have partnered with Shelter Cymru to help raise awareness for homelessness in Wales.

It is a separate event to this evening’s Party at the Palace, which will be broadcasted live by the BBC from Buckingham Palace from 7.30pm. This event will see stars such as Queen with Adam Lambert and Alicia Keys perform.

Prince William and Prince Charles are also expected to take to the stage to deliver personal tributes to the Queen.

Lilibet turns one

08:55 , Furvah Shah

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s daughter, Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, turns one today.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to spend today in Windsor at their former home of Frogmore Cottage to celebrate Lilibet’s birthday.

The Queen met her great-granddaughter for the first time this weekend, according to reports.

Harry and Meghan moved to the US after stepping down as working members of the royal family in 2020.

This is the Duchess’s first trip to London in two years, while Harry last visited in 2021.

Olivia Petter has the full story.

What happened during Friday’s jubilee celebrations?

08:30 , Furvah Shah

On Friday, members of the Royal Family and leading politicians were joined by 400 key workers and volunteers for a national service of thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, London.

The Queen did not attend after experiencing “discomfort” following jubilee celebrations on Thursday and instead watched the service on television at Windsor Castle.

She will be doing the same for today’s Epsom Derby.Prince Charles, Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were all in attendance at St Paul’s.

It was Meghan and Harry’s first public appearance in the UK in two years and they were met with cheers from the crowds as they entered the cathedral.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and wife, Carrie Johnson, were also in attendance and faced boos from the crowds as they arrived.

The Archbishop of York thanked the Queen for “staying the course” in his sermon and praised her for her “staunch constancy and a steadfast consistency, a faithfulness to God, an obedience to a vocation.”

After the service, a reception took place at Guildhall in London, hosted by the Lord Mayor of London. Members of the royal family and senior politicians were in attendance.

Met Office warns thunderstorms and heavy showers could spoil Saturday morning’s jubilee celebrations

08:10 , Furvah Shah

Thunderstorms and heavy rain could dampen platinum jubilee celebrations on Saturday morning.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning as it predicts heavy rain and possible thunder for parts of England this morning, including London.

They said: “While many places will stay dry, thunderstorms will bring heavy rain and lightning to some places early on Saturday.”

The Epsom Derby will take place from 5.30pm and BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace concert is set to take place from 7.30pm, featuring performances from the likes of Queen with Adam Lambert and Alicia Keys.

The weather warning is in place until 10am, but the Met Office say there remains a chance of isolated showers and cloud while heavy rain is thought to move up towards the north.

What’s on the schedule for Saturday’s platinum jubilee events?

07:48 , Furvah Shah

Today, The Epsom Derby race takes place from 5.30pm, which the Queen will not be attending.

Buckingham Palace announced the monarch had suffered “some discomfort” during Thursday’s events and will instead watch the race on television from Windsor Castle.

Other members of the royal family are expected to head to the racecourse on Derby Day instead.

From 7.30pm, the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace will take place. The open-air concert in front of the Palace will feature stars such as Queen with Adam Lambert, Alicia Keys, Hans Zimmer and Duran Duran.

It will be broadcast live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer and BBC Radio 2.

Duchess wears Queen’s earrings

06:00 , Jane Dalton

The Duchess of Cambridge has again paid homage to another member of the royal family, by wearing a pair of the Queen’s diamond and pearl drop earrings to Friday’s Service of Thanksgiving, a loan from the Queen to the duchess. Meredith Clark reports:

Duchess of Cambridge dons the Queen’s earrings during thanksgiving service

Picnic with footballers and get-togethers staged to thank Queen and communities

04:00 , Jane Dalton

Community events to mark the Queen’s 70 years on the throne will take place across the UK on Sunday, and have the backing of a footballing hero.

Sunday marks the final day of the jubilee festivities - as well as national Thank You Day.

The event, which began in 2021, was set up in appreciation of those who helped people through the Covid-19 pandemic, and this year coincides with the four-day bank holiday weekend for the platinum jubilee.

Millions of people are expected to gather at street parties, host a Big Jubilee Lunch or get together around the county to thank the Queen, but also to thank neighbours, family, friends, communities, the NHS and key workers for their support over the past year.

Thank You Day events include a picnic on the pitch at Wembley Stadium, with ex-England footballer John Barnes participating in a sing-along with The Kingdom Choir, who will perform a rendition of the Thank You Day Jubilee Anthem - Sweet Caroline.

Invited guests will share a meal with famous footballers.

The events have been organised by Together Coalition, which is made up of community groups and businesses that work together on campaigns and projects.

Other events include “the world’s longest lunch” on the Long Walk in Windsor, in which 3,000 people will gather for food across 488 tables, and a performance of popular hit Sea Shanty on the River Thames under Tower Bridge.

Also in London, generations of refugees from the those fleeing the Holocaust to refugees of modern conflicts including Afghanistan, Syrian and Ukraine will share a meal together and with those who helped them along the way.

Future kings will speak at concert

02:01 , Jane Dalton

The Prince of Wales and Duke of Cambridge will take to the stage to pay public tributes to the Queen during the star-studded jubilee concert.

The father and son - both future kings - will speak separately in honour of the monarch towards the end of the BBC’s open-air show, staged in the front of Buckingham Palace on Saturday evening.

Diana Ross, Queen + Adam Lambert, Alicia Keys, Hans Zimmer, George Ezra, and Eurovision 2022 runner-up Sam Ryder are among the celebrity acts preparing to entertain a live crowd of 22,000 people and a television audience of millions.

Clarence House and Kensington Palace announced both Charles and William would address the crowds at the high-profile platinum party at the palace, which falls on the third evening of the four-day jubilee festivities.

It is thought unlikely the Queen will attend the concert but confirmation of any movements will be released on the day.

Street parties around the UK

Saturday 4 June 2022 00:02 , Jane Dalton

Princess Royal visits Edinburgh

Friday 3 June 2022 23:02 , Jane Dalton

The Princess Royal fed penguins and met young Ukrainian refugees on a visit to Edinburgh Zoo.

She and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, are in the Scottish capital as members of the royal family visit the nations of the UK over the long weekend to celebrate the jubilee.

Friday 3 June 2022 22:00 , Jane Dalton

More images from the thanksgiving service:

The best royal outfits

Friday 3 June 2022 21:06 , Jane Dalton

Meghan Markle earned high praise for her “understated” appearance, arriving at St Paul’s Cathedral in a sleek Dior belted coat. Meanwhile, the Duchess of Cambridge turned heads in a crisp white Alexander McQueen blazer dress.

Here are Saman Javed’s favourite looks of the various royal family members:

The best royal outfits from the Queen’s platinum jubilee weekend

Five servicemen faint

Friday 3 June 2022 20:03 , Jane Dalton

Five members of the military fainted while on duty at the national thanksgiving service.

Personnel from the Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, Household Cavalry and Coldstream Guards collapsed while stationed at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday morning.

Two members of the military guard of honour - one from the Royal Air Force Regiment and another from the Royal Marines - appeared to lose consciousness within half an hour of each other as they lined the steps up to the Great West Door waiting for the royal family to arrive.

The member of the Royal Air Force fainted and fell flat on his back on the steps before regaining consciousness.

The other man, who was standing closer to the Great West Door, momentarily appeared to lose consciousness approximately 20 minutes later, stumbling on the top steps before regaining his balance and being taken under the columns of the cathedral.

They were able to be escorted on foot away from the steps, despite stretchers being brought out.

It was a very warm and sunny day in London, with temperatures hovering at around 20C at the start of the service.

Prince Harry jokes with Princess Eugenie’s husband

Friday 3 June 2022 19:02 , Jane Dalton

Harry was spotted laughing with Princess Eugenie’s husband, Jack Brooksbank, suggesting a closeness between the two couples.

Earlier this year, his cousin Eugenie became the first member of the royal family to visit the duke and duchess at their home in California.

In another photograph, Harry and her sister Beatrice were seen swapping expressions with other royals – most likely Zara and Mike Tindall – seated across the aisle.

Prince Harry jokes with Princess Eugenie’s husband Jack Brooksbank

'Substantial' booing for Boris Johnson as he arrives for Queen’s Jubilee service

Friday 3 June 2022 18:00 , Joe Middleton

Priti Patel compared to Dolores Umbridge for her shocking pink Jubilee outfit

Friday 3 June 2022 17:30 , Joe Middleton

Home Secretary Priti Patel has turned heads at arriving at St Paul’s Cathedral for the National Thanksgiving Service during the Platinum Jubilee with her shocking pink outfit.

The controversial Tory minister was amongst the politicians at the service, which included Boris Johnson who received a mix of boos and cheers when he arrived at the cathedral with his wife Carrie.

However, Patel almost stole the show with her bright pink dress and hat, which immediately earned her comparisons to Professor Umbridge from Harry Potter.

Greg Evans reports.

Priti Patel compared to Dolores Umbridge for her shocking pink Jubilee outfit

Video: Piers Morgan rants about vegans during Queen’s Jubilee coverage

Friday 3 June 2022 17:00 , Joe Middleton

IYCMI: Queen ‘meets Lilibet for the first time’

Friday 3 June 2022 16:30 , Joe Middleton

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

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.

Olivia Petter reports.

Queen ‘meets Lilibet for first time’ in Windsor

Queen pulls out of Epsom Derby appearance

Friday 3 June 2022 16:06 , Joe Middleton

The Queen will not attend the Epsom Derby on Saturday as planned, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.

However, the monarch is expected to watch the sporting event on TV from Windsor Castle.

Olivia Petter reports.

Queen pulls out of Epsom Derby appearance

Pictured: Brits celebrate historic platinum jubilee

Friday 3 June 2022 15:58 , Joe Middleton

Prince Harry helps Meghan Markle straighten her dress collar at platinum jubilee celebration

Friday 3 June 2022 15:47 , Joe Middleton

As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle walked hand in hand to the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebration on Friday, the Duke of Sussex took a moment to help his wife with her dress collar.

The couple arrived at St Paul’s Cathedral, along with other members of the royal family, for the Service of Thanksgiving, as part of the four day holiday celebrations in honour of the Queen’s 70 year-reign.

In footage obtained by ABC News, Prince Harry could be seen straightening his tie, while his wife exited their car, outside of the church.

Prince Harry helps Meghan Markle straighten her collar at at jubilee celebration

Queen found Jubilee celebrations ‘very tiring’ but had ‘lovely time’

Friday 3 June 2022 15:37 , Joe Middleton

The Queen had a “lovely” time at Thursday’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations but found the day “very tiring”, the Duchess of Cambridge is said to have told an attendee at a Guildhall reception.

Gill Smallwood from Bolton spoke with Kate on Friday after a service of thanksgiving at the nearby St Paul’s Cathedral.

Ms Smallwood said she had asked Kate how the Queen was doing.

She told PA: “She (Kate) said, ‘yes, she was fine, it was just very tiring yesterday, and she (the Queen) had had a lovely, lovely time’.”

Ms Smallwood, chief executive of domestic violence charity Fortalice, was made an MBE in the New Year honours.

David and Victoria Beckham to host special Jubilee lunch

Friday 3 June 2022 15:17 , Joe Middleton

David and Victoria Beckham will host a special Jubilee lunch for inspirational individuals as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

The couple will celebrate people who have made incredible contributions to their communities.

The Beckham’s Big Jubilee Lunch will air as part of the Platinum Pageant on BBC One on Sunday June 5.

In a post shared to Instagram on Thursday, David, 47, ?hailed the Queen’s reign as “remarkable”, writing: “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.”

David was made an OBE by the Queen in 2003 for services to football. Victoria and two of the couple’s sons, Brooklyn and Romeo, as well as David’s grandparents, were in attendance to see him accept the honour.

Victoria was also made an OBE in 2017 for services to the fashion industry.

Those attending the couple’s lunch include MBE recipients, including Judith Harper, who was made an MBE for services to fostering, having fostered more than 100 children.

Also at the lunch will be Saeed Atcha, who was made an MBE for services to young people and the community in 2019. At 22-years-old, Atcha was the youngest recipient on the 2019 Honours list.

Platinum Jubilee: Harry and William sit on opposite sides of cathedral at service of thanksgiving

Friday 3 June 2022 15:07 , Joe Middleton

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex sat on the opposite side of the cathedral to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the special Service of Thanksgiving held in honour of the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

On Friday, members of the royal family gathered at St Paul’s Cathedral for the service while the Queen, who pulled out due to experiencing “discomfort” at yesterday’s proceedings, watched on TV from Windsor.

While Prince William and Kate were seated on the right hand side of the cathedral in the front row, Harry and Meghan were seated on the left hand side in the second row.

Olivia Petter reports.

Harry and William sit on opposite sides of cathedral at service of thanksgiving

Ed Sheeran reveals past jubilee celebrations inspired music career

Friday 3 June 2022 14:59 , Joe Middleton

Ed Sheeran has revealed how past jubilee celebrations inspired his musical career ahead of his performance at the Platinum Jubilee Pageant on Sunday.

In a post on Instagram, the singer wrote: “20 years ago I decided I wanted to pick up a guitar because I watched the Golden Jubilee on tv, saw Eric Clapton play Layla and said ‘that’s what I wanna do’.

“10 years later I played The A Team at the Diamond Jubilee, and now 10 years on I’m playing the Platinum Jubilee this Sunday.

“Life is weird how it keeps coming full circle in lovely ways. Tune in on Sunday and see ya there x”

The 31-year-old is set to perform his song Perfect during Sunday’s celebrations, as a tribute to the Queen and her late husband the Duke of Edinburgh.

Video: Spectator explains why he booed Boris Johnson at jubilee thanksgiving service

Friday 3 June 2022 14:52 , Joe Middleton

Thousands set to turn out for party at the palace

Friday 3 June 2022 14:46 , Jane Dalton

Around 22,000 people are expected at the star-studded the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace tomorrow evening.

Craig David, Alicia Keys, Elbow, Duran Duran, Andrea Bocelli and Sir Rod Stewart are all among the stars due to perform outside Buckingham Palace.

Queen + Adam Lambert will open the concert with a production reminiscent of Brian May’s appearance on the palace roof at the Golden Jubilee Concert in 2002.

Diana Ross will close the two-and-a-half-hour show, with her first live UK performance in 15 years.

Lightning and rain may wreck Saturday festivities

Friday 3 June 2022 14:32 , Jane Dalton

Thunderstorms could dampen jubilee festivities in southern England, the Met Office has warned.

Forecasters are predicting heavy rain and lightning in some places, and a yellow warning has been put in place from midnight until 10am tomorrow, Saturday.

The area covered by the warning stretches from Dover to Penzance, and as far north as Bath and south London.

Met Office experts said there was a small chance that homes and businesses could be flooded quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning, hail or strong winds during the morning.

They also warned of a small chance of delays and some cancellations to train and bus services due to lightning and flooding, as well as possible power cuts, difficult driving conditions and road closures.

Initially it had been thought that storms would strike on Saturday evening, during the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace.

Harry and Meghan seated in second row

Friday 3 June 2022 14:25 , Jane Dalton

Indicative of their new more-minor position within the royal family, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were seated in the second row from the front behind the Wessex family and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester during the thanksgiving service.

Harry was next to Princess Eugenie’s husband, Jack Brooksbank, and Meghan was next to Princess Margaret’s daughter, Lady Sarah Chatto.

At one point, Harry appeared to enjoy a joke with other royals - most likely Zara and Mike Tindall - seated across the aisle.

Beatrice, sitting a few seats down, was also grinning in the same direction.

Harry was also seen laughing with Mr Brooksbank, and joined the Tindalls and cousin Peter Phillips for a chat on the steps afterwards.

Funniest and most heart-warming moments

Friday 3 June 2022 14:18 , Jane Dalton

The Cambridges’ youngest child, Louis, covered his ears on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Royal Armed Forces flypast, while Kate Middleton paid subtle tribute to Princess Diana.

Meghan playfully shushed royal children, and the Army gave the Queen a hand-crafted walking stick. Saman Javed rounds up her favourite moments so far:

Funniest and most heart-warming moments from Queen’s platinum jubilee

Royal family members seated inside service

Friday 3 June 2022 14:01 , Jane Dalton

Prince Charles appeared weary in a photograph taken inside the thanksgiving service.

Those seen seated include the Duchess of Cambridge, the Duke of Cambridge, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Prince of Wales , the Earl of Wessex, the Countess of Wessex, Lady Louise Windsor, James, Viscount Severn, the Duke of Gloucester, and the Duchess of Gloucester, with the wider members of the Royal Family seated behind.

Wrong for ‘lying’ PM to attend service, says spectator who booed

Friday 3 June 2022 13:50 , Jane Dalton

One spectator said he booed Boris Johnson before the thanksgiving service because he had been lying for the past five years and it was inappropriate for him to attend.

Frenchman Clement Jacqueman said: “What Boris has been doing with Brexit and Partygate and whatnot has an impact on every single citizen of this wonderful kingdom.”

He said he wished France still had a king, and that he was leaving the country because Mr Johnson was “a disgrace”.

Five Guys photobombing the Jubilee has everyone craving burgers

Friday 3 June 2022 13:31 , Sam Rkaina

A Five Guys restaurant, positioned across to road from the main entrance at St Paul’s Cathedral had people watching the Platinum Jubilee at home craving burgers for lunch.

As the likes of Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Boris Johnson made their way into the cathedral for the Service of Thanksgiving, which the Queen did not attend after experiencing ‘discomfort’ after Friday’s activities, television cameras couldn’t help but pick up the Five Guys restaurant where crowds had gathered outside.

Click here for the full story.

Meghan and Harry shared a joke as they left service

Friday 3 June 2022 13:26 , Sam Rkaina

Harry and Megan walked down the aisle of St Paul’s hand-in-hand after the service, joined by other members of the royal family and following Charles and Camilla and William and Kate.

The couple turned to talk to Lady Sarah Chatto, who had been sat next to Meghan, and her husband Daniel Chatto.

Senior clerics were again waiting to bid the congregation goodbye and the duchess shared a joke with the Archbishop of York and she touched Harry’s arm as he joined the conversation.

The trio erupted with laughter before the Sussexes moved on.

Nicola Sturgeon praises the Queen who she ‘deeply respects'

Friday 3 June 2022 13:22 , Sam Rkaina

Nicola Sturgeon has spoken of her “deep respect” for the Queen, saying her private conversations with the monarch are one of the privileges of being Scotland’s First Minister.

Ms Sturgeon said she wanted the Queen and her successors to remain as head of state if Scotland became independent.

In an interview with the BBC, the First Minister said even those who were not “great supporters” of the monarchy still thought of her as a “quite extraordinary individual”.

She said: “One of the things that I feel great respect for the Queen around is just that dedication, that selfless commitment to duty and to service.”

It is SNP policy for the Queen and her successors to remain head of state, she said.

Speaking about her conversations with the Queen, Ms Sturgeon said: “I like her a lot - I have deep respect for her as many people do.

“The context of those conversations are rightly by convention completely private and confidential and I won’t breach that.

“But I think it is fair to say that, that opportunity to talk with her, to benefit from her knowledge, her wisdom and perhaps above all the completely unique perspective she has on modern world history, is something that I deeply value and will always really treasure.”

Boris Johnson inside the service

Friday 3 June 2022 13:15 , Sam Rkaina

Pictures from inside St Paul's

Friday 3 June 2022 13:12 , Sam Rkaina

Video: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle leave Queen’s Platinum Jubilee thanksgiving service at St Paul's

Friday 3 June 2022 12:54 , Joe Middleton

Prince Charles and Camilla arrive at London Guildhall reception

Friday 3 June 2022 12:41 , Sam Rkaina

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall have arrived at a reception at London’s Guildhall, however Harry and Meghan are not expected to attend.

The couple, who have come from the National Service of Thanksgiving at the nearby St Paul’s Cathedral, were greeted by the former lord mayor Sir David Wootton and Colonel Simon Duckworth.

They were followed by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Guests at the reception include many of those who attended the religious service, including royals and senior politicians.

Prince Charles, William and Harry lead procession out of St Paul’s

Friday 3 June 2022 12:34 , Sam Rkaina

Prince Charles led the procession out of St Paul’s Cathedral, followed closely by his sons William and Harry with their partners.

Boris Johnson followed soon after with Carrie, followed by other former prime ministers such as Gordon Brown and David Cameron.

The bells are chiming again

Friday 3 June 2022 12:24 , Joe Middleton

The Royal Family are set to depart St Paul’s Cathedral after the Service of Thanksgiving to mark the Queen’s Jubilee.

Platinum Jubilee: Meghan Markle praised for ‘understated’ outfit at Service of Thanksgiving

Friday 3 June 2022 12:18 , Joe Middleton

The Duchess of Sussex has been praised for her sophisticated outfit choice for the Service of Thanksgiving to mark the Queen’s Jubilee.

On Friday, members of the royal family gathered at St Paul’s Cathedral as part of the bank holiday celebrations marking the Queen’s 70th year on the throne.

While the monarch herself was not in attendance due after experiencing “some discomfort” during Thursday’s platinum jubilee celebrations, Buckingham Palace said.

Olivia Petter reports.

Meghan Markle praised for ‘understated’ outfit at Service of Thanksgiving

The Archbishop of York’s full sermon

Friday 3 June 2022 12:07 , Joe Middleton

“‘Bring your supplications and thanksgivings to God’ says St Paul. ‘Then the peace of God will guard your heart and mind... and keep on doing the things that you see in me.’ (Philippians 4.6,7 & 9)

“Of course, the ‘me’ in that sentence is Paul himself. But Paul is only worth following because he is following Jesus. And Jesus is worth following because Jesus shows us who God is, and what our humanity could be. And there are many occasions in the gospels where we see Jesus himself, faithful to his vocation, seeking out places of replenishing so that he can learn God’s way.

“‘I only do what I see the Father doing’, says Jesus (see John 5. 19).

“‘He is close to God’s heart’, says St John (see John 1.18).

“Sometimes I wonder whether the whole Christian faith is best understood as an invitation to dwell there ourselves.

“And the purpose of the Christian faith is to know and to do God’s will.

“We gather today in great rejoicing to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen, but we do it against a backdrop of such suffering and uncertainty in our world.

“For me, the best leaders - like Paul, like Jesus - are those who know how to be led. People who lead for others, not themselves. People whose heart’s desire is to serve the common good and build up the common life; who don’t try to do it all themselves, or act in their own strength alone; people who take a longer view; and who seek out places of replenishing, even places where they might learn the mind of Christ.

“And I say this today, knowing that in Her Majesty the Queen we see an example of this kind of service; a staunch constancy and a steadfast consistency; a faithfulness to God, an obedience to a vocation that is the bedrock of her life.

“No, bedrock isn’t quite the right image.

“Faith in Jesus Christ is a fountain, and it is a well.

“It is the well from which we draw deeply and replenish ourselves through all the challenges, joys, and vicissitudes of life.

“And it is a fountain, overflowing with immense joy. Joy, that we can live in the assurance that we are loved; joy, that God has a purpose for our lives; and, joy, that through Christ’s dying and rising there is the promise of life eternal.

“It is well known that Her Majesty likes horse racing. I don’t have any great tips for the Derby tomorrow, but since the scriptures describe life as a race set before us, let me observe that her long reign reflects the distance of Aintree more than the sprints of Epsom. Certainly, less dressage than most people imagine. But with endurance, through times of change and challenge, joy and sorrow, she continues to offer herself in the service of our country and the commonwealth. Your Majesty, we’re sorry you’re not with us this morning in person, but you are still in the saddle. And we are all glad that there is still more to come.

“So, thank you for staying the course. Thank you for continuing to be faithful to the pledges you made 70 years ago. Thank you for showing us how service and faithfulness matter. People of all faiths and none can learn from this.

“Sometimes people say to me that the Christian faith is just a prop. I couldn’t agree more. I’m not ashamed to say I lean on Jesus Christ, that I’m trying to live close to his heart. That I need his wisdom and his hope. And if you will forgive such presumption, this is what I also see in you.

“And to the people of our great nation, I say this: we are indeed living in a time of uncertainty and challenge, and we would do well to consider where we will find the replenishing we need.

“What I see in Her Majesty the Queen is someone who has been able to serve our nation faithfully because of her faith in Jesus Christ. Perhaps there is no better way of celebrating her Platinum Jubilee than by doing the same ourselves.”

Archbishop of York thanks Queen for ‘staying the course'

Friday 3 June 2022 12:01 , Joe Middleton

The Queen is “still in the saddle”, the Archbishop of York has said, as he thanked her for “staying the course”.

In his sermon at the special service of thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, The Most Rev Stephen Cottrell compared the monarch’s well-known love of horse racing to her long reign, suggesting it “reflects the distance of Aintree more than the sprints of Epsom”.

During his sermon, Mr Cottrell told the congregation, which included senior members of the royal family, he was “sorry” the Queen could not attend, but glad there is “still more to come”.

He said: “It is well known that Her Majesty likes horse racing.

“I don’t have any great tips for the Derby tomorrow, but since the scriptures describe life as a race set before us, let me observe that her long reign reflects the distance of Aintree more than the sprints of Epsom.

“Certainly, less dressage than most people imagine.

“But with endurance, through times of change and challenge, joy and sorrow, she continues to offer herself in the service of our country and the Commonwealth.

“Your Majesty, we’re sorry you’re not with us this morning in person, but you are still in the saddle. And we are all glad that there is still more to come.”

Mr Cottrell stepped in at late notice to deliver the sermon after the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, contracted Covid-19.

Video: Current and former prime ministers arrive at St Paul's for thanksgiving service

Friday 3 June 2022 11:54 , Joe Middleton

Sean Smith: The story of the Queen’s love of horse racing

Friday 3 June 2022 11:49 , Joe Middleton

Her passion for all things equestrian, nurtured at an early age, has stayed with the Queen throughout her 70 years as monarch. Sean Smith tells the story of a natural horsewoman’s love of racing and its equine stars.

The story of the Queen’s love of horse racing

Video: Prince Charles arrives with Duchess of Cornwall at St Paul's Cathedral

Friday 3 June 2022 11:35 , Joe Middleton

Boris Johnson booed as he arrives for Queen’s Jubilee service at St Paul’s

Friday 3 June 2022 11:31 , Joe Middleton

Boris Johnson was booed by the crowd outside St Paul’s Cathedral as he arrived for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee service.

The public could be heard jeering and whistling as the prime minister walked up the steps with his wife Carrie on Friday morning.

Many of the senior political figures – included former Tory prime minister David Cameron and Labour London mayor Sadiq Khan – were cheered by the crowd behind the barricades.

Adam Forrest reports.

Boris Johnson booed as he arrives for Queen’s Jubilee service

Video: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrive at St Paul's Cathedral for service of thanksgiving

Friday 3 June 2022 11:27 , Joe Middleton

Platinum Jubilee: Carrie Johnson wears red fitted dress and matching hat for thanksgiving service

Friday 3 June 2022 11:21 , Joe Middleton

Carrie Johnson has arrived at St Paul’s Cathedral for the service of thanksgiving marking the Queen’s Jubilee on Friday.

The 34-year-old arrived hand-in-hand with her husband, prime minister Boris Johnson, wearing a bright red summer dress.

The fitted frock featured long sleeves with padded shoulders and a flared skirt that fell to Carrie’s calves.

Olivia Petter reports.

Carrie Johnson wears red fitted dress and matching hat for thanksgiving service

Prince Charles and Camilla arrive

Friday 3 June 2022 11:20 , Joe Middleton

Prince Charles arrives with his wife Camilla. He will take the Queen’s place at the Jubilee service of thanksgiving.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive

Friday 3 June 2022 11:18 , Joe Middleton

Kate and William were met with a huge cheer as they arrived at St Paul’s. The couple are popular with the UK public, with opinion polls putting them behind the Queen in terms of popularity.

Meghan and Harry arrive

Friday 3 June 2022 11:07 , Joe Middleton

A smiling Duke and Duchess of Sussex have arrived for their first royal engagement since they left the UK. There were cheers for the couple from the crowd.

The couple then processed through the nave of the church hand in hand, with Meghan smiling and Harry biting his lip at times.

They were sat in the second row from the front, with Harry next to Princess Eugenie’s husband Jack Brooksbank and Meghan next to Princess Margaret’s daughter Lady Sarah Chatto.

Boris Johnson and Carrie take their seats

Friday 3 June 2022 11:05 , Sam Rkaina

A number of royals arrive by coach

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 10:58 , Joe Middleton

The bells are chiming...

Friday 3 June 2022 10:56 , Joe Middleton

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

Where are the royals sat for the service?

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 10:48 , Sam Rkaina

Member of the armed forces collapses on steps

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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.

Lindsay Hoyle arrives for service

Friday 3 June 2022 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.

Archbishop of York calls service “slightly terrifying gig”

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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.

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

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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.

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

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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.

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

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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?

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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.

Read more:

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

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

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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.

Barack Obama: Queen makes world safer place

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 03:00 , Jane Dalton

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

How the Queen has remained popular over 70 years

Friday 3 June 2022 20:04 , Jane Dalton

She is loved and respected thanks to her dedication to duty, but despite his best efforts, the Prince of Wales still does not command the kind of popularity that his mother has enjoyed. Emma Mackenzie looks at the Queen’s unique popularity:

The Queen’s popularity is her greatest asset – so what will happen once she’s gone?

Key workers and volunteers to attend thanksgiving service

Friday 3 June 2022 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

Friday 3 June 2022 01:01 , Jane Dalton

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:42 , Liam James

Lights go up at Windsor castle

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:39 , Liam James

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.

Read more here.

Prince William arrives for beacon lighting ceremony

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:25 , Liam James

The Duke of Cambridge has arrived at Buckingham Palace to play his part in the dual beacon-lighting ceremony with the Queen, who is at Windsor.

The principal beacon is the 69ft tall Tree of Trees sculpture, featuring 350 British-grown trees, which towers over the palace.

Created by British designer Thomas Heatherwick, the living creation reflects the planting of more than a million jubilee trees as part of the Queen‘s Green Canopy initiative to mark 70 years of the monarch’s reign.

It will be illuminated with 3,500 festoon lights when the monarch symbolically triggers the ceremony from her Berkshire home.

Queen would have made great government minister, John Major suggests

Thursday 2 June 2022 21:15 , Liam James

Sir John Major, one of the 14 prime ministers of the queen's reign, suggested Queen Elizabeth II would have made a great addition to his cabinet.

Speaking to the BBC about his weekly meetings with the Queen in his years as prime minister, Sir John said: “Politics even amongst the closest of colleagues tends [to be] a little leaky.

“The one thing about the meetings with the Queen, nobody is there, just the corgis - behaving or not as the case may be, usually behaving - and you could speak in absolute privacy. There's no private secretary there. No notes are made.

“You can say exactly what you wish, exactly what is on your mind. And so can the Queen. So that is very valuable.”

Sir John said he often came away from these meetings thinking to himself: “What a shame she isn't in the cabinet.”

Harry and Meghan roll down windows among crowd of fans

Thursday 2 June 2022 20:54 , Liam James

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were spotted smiling at cheering fans as the couple drove through London during Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee celebrations.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were seen smiling as their car drove on Cleveland Row, a side street near Buckingham Palace, on Thursday.

Fans waved and clapped for the royal couple, who were seated in the back of the car with a window rolled down on the passenger side. Meghan appeared to be smiling at the crowd as Prince Harry looked over her shoulder.

It is unclear where the couple were headed as their car drove through London; although, it was reported that the duke and duchess will be staying in their old home, Frogmore Cottage, during their time in the UK.

Meghan and Harry roll down car window to beam at fans during platinum jubilee

Baton relay tours London

Thursday 2 June 2022 20:38 , Jane Dalton

Baton-bearer Lemona Chanda carries the Queen’s baton during the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s baton relay at Battersea Power Station in London. The relay is touring London for four days, coinciding with the Platinum Jubilee weekend.

Jubliee will be ‘last hurrah’ of royal events, says republican group

Thursday 2 June 2022 20:30 , Jane Dalton

Anti-monarchy campaign group Republic says it expects the Platinum Jubilee to be the “last hurrah” of major royal events.

Graham Smith, chief executive of Republic, which wants the monarchy to be abolished, said such celebrations can take place “with or without the monarchy”.

He said: “The jubilee is the last hurrah of the monarchy in the next few years.

“We always hope that this is the last.

“We are moving from hope to expectation as it will be a very long time until Charles has a jubilee and hopefully the monarchy will be abolished by the time George is on the throne.”

Asked about the possibility of the Prince of Wales’s coronation taking place as a major royal event in the next few years, Mr Smith said it will not be the same as the jubilee.

He said: “It will be a political event,” adding that the coronation will “trigger huge debate” over the monarchy and is likely to be accompanied by protests.

“People do not think about Prince Charles in the same way they think about the Queen,” he said.

“That conversation is going to be a very different affair.”

‘Some discomfort’ felt by Queen at jubilee celebrations

Thursday 2 June 2022 19:55 , Katy Clifton

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

The statement said: “Taking into account the journey and activity required to participate in tomorrow’s National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, Her Majesty, with great reluctance, has concluded that she will not attend.”

She is believed to have experienced episodic mobility issues during Thursday’s events.

But she will attend a beacon lighting event at Windsor Castle on Thursday evening, the palace confirmed.

It is understood the decision was considered regrettable but sensible due to the length of the journey and time involved and the physical demands the service would require.

Breaking news

Thursday 2 June 2022 19:41 , Katy Clifton

The Queen will miss the National Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral in London on Friday “with great reluctance” after experiencing “some discomfort” during Thursday’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, Buckingham Palace has said.

Read more on this breaking news story below:

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

Queen presented handcrafted walking stick

Thursday 2 June 2022 18:56 , Katy Clifton

The British Army has given a handcrafted walking stick to the Queen to mark the platinum jubilee.

The monarch appeared on the balcony at Buckingham Palace on Thursday to watch the first day of jubilee festivities, which included a parade down The Mall and a Red Arrow flypast.

The Queen, who wore pale blue, was also holding a walking stick which was made by Cumbria-based traditional stick maker Dennis Wall.

General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, chief of the general staff, had presented her with the gift as a symbol of the Army’s support.

Read more below:

Army gives Queen handcrafted walking stick with unique engraving for jubilee

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website