Jubilee – live: Harry and Meghan to join Queen for Trooping the Colour

Thousands of people are set to join street parties across the UK today while the Queen and her family will observe Trooping the Colour as the country marks the Platinum Jubilee with a four-day bank holiday weekend.

Events range from family picnics to a record-breaking 5,000-strong street party, while the Met Office has warned it will be a quintessentially British summer bank holiday with drizzle and patchy sunshine.

The largest party celebrating the Queen’s record-breaking 70-year reign is set to be Morecambe Bay’s Big Jubilee Lunch on Sunday.

A Service of Thanksgiving, lit Platinum beacons, a Jubilee pageant and a star-studded concert are also planned.

The Queen has returned to Windsor for the events after a short stay at her Balmoral estate in Scotland.

While the Queen has made mostly virtual appearances so far this year due to ongoing mobility issues, she appeared at the Chelsea Flower show this week riding an electric buggy.

Key points

• When is the Platinum Jubilee?

• The Queen is back in Windsor ahead of platinum jubilee following Balmoral visit

• Queen to ‘miss Epsom Derby’ on platinum jubilee weekend

• Prince Andrew expected to join Queen at Jubilee Service of Thanksgiving

• Royal family to share friendship, food and fun at jubilee lunches

Key events throughout the day

07:40 , Emily Atkinson

The main events coming up today include the Trooping of the Colour military parade from 11am and the RAF flypast, which should appear over out heads in central London around 1pm.

The latter will have the audience of the royals, who will lined up on the balcony for the spectacle.

Charles, the Duchess of Cornwall, William and the Duchess of Cambridge, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, Anne, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke of Kent, Princess Alexandra and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence are expected on the balcony for the flypast.

The principal beacon outside Buckingham Palace will also be lit by a senior member of the royal family to join up with a network of flaming tributes across the UK and Commonwealth.

Good morning from Buckingham Palace

07:33 , Tom Batchelor

Good morning from Buckingham Palace, where The Independent will be reporting live from today’s round of Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

Stay tuned for live updates throughout the day.

07:14 , Laura Hampson

Good morning and welcome to our rolling coverage of the platinum jubilee celebrations. Today there will be two major events, the Trooping the Colour parade and the lighting of the platinum jubilee beacons.

Wednesday 1 June 2022 18:35 , Saman Javed

That’s a wrap of our royal coverage today, check back in tomorrow as the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations begin!

Britons dismayed to find out platinum jubilee has disrupted bin collection

Wednesday 1 June 2022 18:30 , Saman Javed

Twitter users have been left disgruntled by changes to bin collection days over the bank holiday weekend.

Part of the uproar is because there is no one-size-fits-all system in the UK for bin collections over the jubilee weekend.

While some local councils have announced their services won’t be affected, others have made collection days later or earlier than the normal schedule.

If you’re unsure how your bins might be affected, Maryam Zakir-Hussain has created this helpful guide:

How Jubilee bank holiday weekend will impact on your bin collections

Wednesday 1 June 2022 18:05 , Laura Hampson

That’s a wrap of our jubilee coverage today. Join us first thing tomorrow as we start our coverage of the Trooping the Colour parade.

These are the flypast timings for Thursday

Wednesday 1 June 2022 18:00 , Saman Javed

Thursday’s Trooping the Colour ceremony will end with a spectacular flypast that will see Spitfires and Red Arrows gracing the skies above the UK.

No fewer than 70 military aircraft from across the UK Armed Forces will soar from the North Sea over several counties across the country and over Buckingham Palace.

According to Military Airshows, a website that tracks airshows around the UK, the front of the procession will begin to appear over central London between 12.40pm to 1.15pm.

Kate Ng has the details:

When are the RAF flypast timings for the Queen’s platinum jubilee?

Queen to light principal jubilee beacon at Windsor Castle

Wednesday 1 June 2022 17:41 , Laura Hampson

The Queen will lead the lighting of the principal jubilee beacon this Thursday, Buckingham Palace has announced.

The lighting will take place in a special ceremony at Windsor Castle on Thursday evening, the first day of the four-day platinum jubilee bank holiday weekend.

The new engagement, added to the Queen’s jubilee diary, will see the monarch symbolically touch the Commonwealth Globe of Nations, created for the Beacons projects, in the castle Quadrangle.

Laura Hampson has the full report, including who will be lighting the Buckingham Palace beacon, here:

Queen to light principal jubilee beacon at Windsor Castle

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are due to return to the UK - but where will they stay?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 17:35 , Saman Javed

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have confirmed they will be attending the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations.

While some outlets have speculated that the couple, along with their two childre, Archie and Lilibet, will touch down in England on Wednesday, they are yet to be spotted.

It marks the first time the family has returned to the UK after Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior members of the royal family in 2020. They have since settled in California.

But without an official royal residence in the UK, some have been left wondering where the couple will stay during their trip.

Here’s what we know:

Where will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stay during Queen’s Platinum Jubilee?

Pubs to stay open for longer this bank holiday weekend

Wednesday 1 June 2022 17:00 , Saman Javed

Those hoping to celebrate our monarch at their local pub this weekend are in for a treat, as establishments across England and Wales have been granted permission to extend their opening hours.

Pubs will be allowed to stay open past the usual 11pm curfew to 1am on Thursday 2 June, Friday 3 June and Saturday 4 June.

In Scotland, only pubs and bars in Glasgow will be permitted to pour drinks later than usual.

Joanna Whitehead reports:

What will pub opening hours be like for the Jubilee weekend?

How much will the platinum jubilee cost?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 16:00 , Saman Javed

While it is unclear exactly how much the long weekend is costing, the government has pledged more than £20 million towards the celebrations.

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

Saman Javed has the details:

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

Knitted corgis are appearing on postboxes across the UK

Wednesday 1 June 2022 15:38 , Saman Javed

Talented knitters up and down the country have been celebrating the upcoming weekend, creating platinum jubilee-themed accessories for Royal Mail postboxes.

The postal service has shared some designs on Twitter:

Which platinum jubilee events will the Queen attend?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 15:00 , Saman Javed

There is much speculation about which platinum jubilee events the Queen will attend, with Buckingham Palace previously announcing that the Queen’s attendance at the celebrations will not be confirmed “until the day itself”.

The spokesperson explained: “The Queen is looking forward to the weekend and will be taking part in the celebrations but her presence will not be confirmed until much nearer the time or even on the day itself.”

Despite this, the monarch is currently expected to attend the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Thursday 2 June and a Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday 3 June.

Joanna Whitehead has the details:

What events will the Queen attend on the platinum jubilee weekend?

What is the Platinum Jubilee Pageant route and what time does it start?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 14:40 , Saman Javed

A 10,000-strong pageant honouring the monarch is expected to captivate the capital on Sunday 5 June.

The Platinum Jubilee Pageant, which will conclude the four-day festivities, is one of the main official events organised by Buckingham Palace and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

Performers from across the UK and the Commonwealth will tell the story of the Queen’s 70-year reign – the longest of any British monarch in history – and the changing face of British society.

Kate Ng has charted the pageant’s route and where you can watch:

What is the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pageant route?

Who will attend the Trooping the Colour ceremony tomorrow?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 13:31 , Saman Javed

The platinum jubilee celebrations will kick off with the Queen’s “official” birthday on Thursday, which is marked with a military parade named Trooping the Colour.

During the parade, soldiers, musicians and horses will make their way down The Mall in London towards Buckingham Palace, and streets will be filled with spectators.

The Queen’s “official” birthday celebrations will be attended by all working members of the royal family and their children.

The Buckingham Palace has confirmed that 17 members of the family will join the Queen on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

The Duke of York and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not be included in the line-up.

Saman Javed reports:

Trooping the Colour 2022: How is the Queen celebrating and who will join?

Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson in London ahead of Queen’s platinum jubilee

Wednesday 1 June 2022 13:07 , Saman Javed

Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson have been photographed in London this week, having arrived ahead of the UK’s special bank holiday weekend.

Photographs of the pair taken on Tuesday showed Kardashian wearing a full Balenciaga outfit, featuring a cropped beige hoodie and shiny gold leggings that ended with pointed stiletto boots.

Davidson, who recently died his hair platinum blonde to match his girlfriend’s, wore a black hoodie under a quilted black jacket with dark green trousers and white trainers.

Some reports have speculated that Kardashian and Davidson are in London to meet with other celebrities attending the Queen’s platinum jubilee parties.

Kate Ng reports:

Kim Kardashian and Pete Davidson in London ahead of Queen’s platinum jubilee

Who is your favourite member of the royal family?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 12:30 , Saman Javed

With just one day to go until the Queen’s platinum jubilee, we want to know; do you have a favourite royal and if so, who?

We’ve listed all the main – living and adult – members of the royal family as it is at the moment, from the Queen to all her grandchildren and spouses who are most regularly in the public eye, including Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle.

We’d like to give our readers the definitive ranking over the weekend, so pick your favourite, or let us know that you don’t have one by voting in our reader poll here:

Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon says he ‘totally respects’ the queen as a person

Wednesday 1 June 2022 12:00 , Saman Javed

Former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon has said he “totally respects” the Queen as a person, and he is looking forward to her platinum jubilee celebrations this weekend.

The singer, whose band were famous for their anti-establishment lyrics, admitted he was “attracted to pageantry” and praised the monarch’s “sense of dignity”.

The Sex Pistols’ famous song “God Save the Queen” was released more than 40 years ago during the monarch’s silver jubilee in 1977, before it was banned by the BBC.

Read the full story here:

Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon says he ‘totally respects’ the queen as a person

What are the lyrics to the National Anthem?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 11:30 , Saman Javed

With the platinum jubilee celebrations set to begin in less than a day, now is a good time to prepare yourself and learn the words to the National Anthem.

For those who usually just hum along to the patriotic song, “God Save The Queen”, Jacob Stolworthy has the full lyrics here:

What are the lyrics to the National Anthem, ‘God Save the Queen’?

Princess Eugenie pens sweet tribute to ‘grannie’

Wednesday 1 June 2022 11:00 , Saman Javed

Princess Eugenie has written a tribute to her grandmother, the Queen, in honour of the monarch’s platinum jubilee.

Eugenie, who is the daughter of the Duke of York, reflected on Her Majesty’s historic 70-year reign.

She also said she would love for her one-year-old son, August, to have the Queen’s best traits when he grows up

“70 years is really quite something, isn’t it? The jubilee stands as a testimony to a woman who has transcended time and has been that constant rock for so many when the world can feel so fragile,” Eugenie wrote.

Kate Ng has the full details:

Princess Eugenie pens tribute to her ‘grannie’ ahead of Queen’s platinum jubilee

Meghan and Harry were the royal family’s last hope for a modern monarchy

Wednesday 1 June 2022 10:30 , Saman Javed

With the Sussexes set to return to the UK to celebrate the Queen’s platinum jubilee, we’ve explored the potential that was lost when they decided to leave the firm in 2020.

Emma Mackenzie takes a closer look here:

Meghan and Harry were the royal family’s last hope for a modern monarchy

These are the supermarket opening times over the bank holiday weekend

Wednesday 1 June 2022 10:03 , Saman Javed

As the nation gears up to celebrate the Queen’s historic milestone this weekend, it’s worth taking a note of how the bank holiday could affect supermarket opening times.

Many stores are operating reduced opening hours, so we recommend planning your grocery shopping ahead of time.

Kate Ng has the full list of opening times here:

What are supermarket opening times on the platinum jubilee bank holiday?

What platinum jubilee events are taking place and when?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 09:30 , Saman Javed

There are plenty of festivities taking part this weekend.

The celebrations will begin with the Trooping the Colour ceremony and the lighting of the royal beacons on Thursday.

This will be followed by a Service of Thanksgiving on Friday which the entire royal family, including the Duke of York and the Duke and the Duchess of Sussex, are expected to attend.

Over the weekend, there is a platinum jubilee concert at Buckingham Palace as well as a platinum jubilee pageant.

Additionally, the public are hosting street parties, with more than 15,000 planned to take place across the UK.

Here is the full schedule of events taking place this weekend:

What events are scheduled during the Platinum Jubilee bank holiday?

How old was Queen Elizabeth when she became the Queen?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 08:50 , Saman Javed

With just one day to go before the platinum jubilee celebrations begin, many people up and down the country are reflecting on the past 70 years and all that the monarch has achieved.

We’ve taken a look back at the beginning of her reign, and how she became Queen before the age of 30.

Joanna Whitehead shares more here:

How old was Queen Elizabeth when she became the Queen?

Wednesday 1 June 2022 08:15 , Saman Javed

The Queen is back in Windsor after enjoying a short break in Balmoral ahead of her platinum jubilee celebrations.

The monarch’s journey back on Tuesday afternoon faced some difficulties after her 13-seater jet arrived in London during a storm.

Buckingham Palace confirmed the flight had aborted its initial landing due to lightning, but added that there had been no safety concerns for the Queen.

Zaina Alibhai has the details:

Queen arrives in Windsor for Jubilee after storm forces her plane to abort landing

Wednesday 1 June 2022 08:03 , Saman Javed

Good morning, and welcome back to The Independent’s liveblog following the latest updates on the Queen and her platinum jubilee. Just one day to go before the festivities get underway!

Tuesday 31 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

Thanks for joining us today. Come back tomorrow for all the latest updates on the Queen and the platinum jubilee bank holiday, which is just two sleeps away!

How to get a free Greggs sausage roll this bank holiday weekend

Tuesday 31 May 2022 18:00 , Kate Ng

Greggs is giving away free sausage rolls in celebration of the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

The popular bakery chain will offer customers one sausage roll or vegan sausage roll when they order more than £10 of food or drink from 2-5 June.

Find out how to claim your free sausage roll below:

How to get a free Greggs sausage roll this bank holiday weekend

Life-sized Queen cake created for platinum jubilee celebration

Tuesday 31 May 2022 17:00 , Kate Ng

A life-sized cake of the Queen has been baked to mark her platinum jubilee, containing 400 eggs, 20kg of flour and 20kg of butter.

Social media star Lara Mason, whose Cake Anything account has 2.7 million followers and more than 70 million likes on TikTok, took five days to complete her creation using Victoria sponge.

Check out the cake version of Her Majesty here:

Life-sized Queen cake created for platinum jubilee celebration

Lego models of royal family unveiled to celebrate Queen’s platinum jubilee

Tuesday 31 May 2022 16:00 , Kate Ng

A miniature display of the royal family – including a Lego replica of the Queen which took 15 hours to build – has been unveiled at Legoland Windsor to mark the platinum jubilee.

The display took Legoland Windsor’s model makers around 282 hours to build, using more than 18,000 individual bricks.

See the royal models below:

Lego models of royal family unveiled to celebrate Queen’s platinum jubilee

Queen returns to London ahead of platinum jubilee bank holiday weekend

Tuesday 31 May 2022 15:14 , Kate Ng

The Queen has returned to London ahead of her platinum jubilee celebrations this weekend, after spending a short break at her Balmoral home in Scotland.

Her Majesty was spotted arriving at Aberdeen Airport today to fly back to London, after arriving in Scotland on Thursday.

Laura Hampson reports:

Queen returns to London ahead of platinum jubilee bank holiday weekend

Knitters create life-size woollen Queen ahead of Jubilee celebrations

Tuesday 31 May 2022 14:51 , Laura Hampson

Here’s something you don’t see every day — a life-sized knitted version of the Queen.

The knitted monarch and a pet corgi were installed in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, at the weekend and villagers have already been stopping to pose for pictures with Her Majesty ahead of the celebrations.

Read more here:

Knitters create life-size woollen Queen ahead of Jubilee celebrations

Will the Platinum Jubilee Pageant be really, really embarrassing?

Tuesday 31 May 2022 14:08 , Laura Hampson

Alan Titchmarsh, Tony Blackburn and Torvill and Dean are on the list of usual suspects, plus the cast of Mamma Mia! celebrating those national treasures, Abba. Oliver Keens finds himself already gripped by a very British emotion.

Read here:

The Queen’s Jubilee Pageant could be really, really embarrassing

Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

Tuesday 31 May 2022 13:25 , Laura Hampson

There’s still time to vote in our poll on who your favourite member of the royal family is.

Are you a Camilla fan? A Harry loyalist? Or is the Queen your favourite?

Let us know here:

Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

The accidental monarch: Charting 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II

Tuesday 31 May 2022 12:46 , Laura Hampson

As the Queen marks seven decades on the throne, Sean O’Grady says her reign has been one full of surprises.

You can read his analysis of Her Majesty’s reign here:

The accidental monarch: Charting 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II

Queen’s Maid of Honour ‘overwhelmed’ at reunion with restored Coronation dress

Tuesday 31 May 2022 12:17 , Laura Hampson

One of the Maids of Honour at the Queen’s Coronation was stunned after being reunited with her dress which had “seemed to disintegrate in one’s hands” before its restoration.

The silk gown Lady Rosemary Spencer-Churchill wore on 2 June 1953 had suffered extreme sunlight exposure after years on display, causing the material to become “split and shattered”.

Here’s the full story on her reunion with the gown:

Queen’s Maid of Honour ‘overwhelmed’ at reunion with restored Coronation dress

When will bins be collected over the bank holiday weekend?

Tuesday 31 May 2022 11:50 , Laura Hampson

The day of your bin collection over the Bank Holiday weekend will be decided by your local council.

There is no one-fits-all system in the UK for bin collections over the long weekend, so some households may have their bins collected later or earlier than the normal schedule.

Maryam Zakir-Hussain has the full report:

How Jubilee bank holiday weekend will impact on your bin collections

Everything that happened at the Queen’s previous jubilees

Tuesday 31 May 2022 11:30 , Kate Ng

Over her decades-long reign, Queen Elizabeth II has celebrated her Silver, Gold and Diamond Jubilees in spectacular fashion, with plenty of events, pageants and tours to celebrate.

Read up on everything that happened at her previous jubilees:

Everything that happened at the Queen’s Silver, Golden and Diamond Jubilees

When is the jubilee bank holiday weekend?

Tuesday 31 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

In case you need yet another reminder, these are the dates for the platinum jubilee bank holiday weekend:

When is the Jubilee bank holiday this week?

Queen’s beloved corgi breed surges in popularity nationwide

Tuesday 31 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

The Queen’s favourite dog breed, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, has surged in popularity in the past year, new figures show.

According to data from The Kennel Club (TKC), there were 1,223 corigis registered in 2021, marking the highest annual figure in nearly 30 years.

Olivia Petter has all the details:

Queen’s beloved corgi breed surges in popularity nationwide

Archbishop of Canterbury to miss Platinum Jubilee service

Tuesday 31 May 2022 08:26 , Kate Ng

The Archbishop of Canterbury is set to miss the Platinum Jubilee service due to a positive Covid test and mild pneumonia.

Lambeth Palace said Justin Welby will not be preaching at St Paul’s Cathedral in London for the celebration later this week.

The archbishop said he was “deeply saddened” to be missing the service marking 70 years on the throne for Queen Elizabeth II.

Zoe Tidman reports:

Archbishop of Canterbury to miss Platinum Jubilee service

Tuesday 31 May 2022 08:23 , Kate Ng

Good morning, and welcome back to The Independent’s liveblog following the latest updates on the Queen and her platinum jubilee. Just under two days to go before the festivities get underway!

Monday 30 May 2022 18:45 , Saman Javed

That’s a wrap of our royal coverage today, check back in tomorrow as we begin our countdown to the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

What platinum jubilee events will the Queen attend?

Monday 30 May 2022 18:30 , Saman Javed

The platinum jubilee celebrations to mark the Queen’s 70 years on the throne are fast approaching.

However, the question of whether the 96-year-old monarch will be fit to attend all the events is still up for debate due to episodic mobility issues suffered by the Queen since autumn last year.

So, what events is Her Majesty expected to attend over the bank holiday weekend? Joanna Whitehead details everything we know so far:

What events will the Queen attend on the platinum jubilee weekend?

What are the supermarket opening times over the platinum jubilee weekend?

Monday 30 May 2022 18:00 , Saman Javed

As Britons gear up to celebrate the Queen’s platinum jubilee in a special four-day bank holiday at the end of this week, it’s worth noting that the festivities may require some extra planning.

This is because some supermarkets will operate reduced hours on bank holidays, so you may need to do your grocery shopping ahead of time.

Kate Ng has the full list of opening times here:

What are supermarket opening times on the platinum jubilee bank holiday?

How to throw a jubilee street party

Monday 30 May 2022 17:30 , Saman Javed

With 16,000 street parties set to take place up and down the country, you may be feeling inspired to throw your own.

Street parties are a historical fixture during times of celebration in the UK, with the first street parties taking place in 1919 after the First World War.

Earlier today, technology minister Chris Philp encouraged local councils to “show a bit of flexibility and pragmatism in support of Her Majesty’s Jubilee” and approve late applications for street parties where possible.

Fancy throwing your own party? Kate Ng has everything you need to know:

How to throw a jubilee street party

Who is your favourite member of the royal family?

Monday 30 May 2022 17:00 , Saman Javed

With just days to go until the Queen’s platinum jubilee, we want to know; do you have a favourite royal and if so, who?

We’ve listed all the main – living and adult – members of the royal family as it is at the moment, from the Queen to all her grandchildren and spouses who are most regularly in the public eye, including Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle.

We’d like to give our readers the definitive ranking over the weekend, so pick your favourite, or let us know that you don’t have one by voting in our reader poll here:

Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

More than 16,000 street parties planned for platinum jubilee weekend

Monday 30 May 2022 16:30 , Saman Javed

On 5 June, which also marks National Thank You Day, the public is being encouraged to host street parties as part of “The Big Jubilee Lunch”.

Council across the country have received a “huge number” of applications for residents who are keen to host a street party in their area, the Local Government Association (LGA) has said.

A snap poll of a dozen councils by the LGA showed it has approved more than 1,000 street parties so far.

Extrapolated across the country, the LGA estimates there could be more than 16,000 celebrations taking place.

Saman Javed has the details here:

More than 16,000 street parties planned for platinum jubilee weekend

England’s largest church bell will be rung at platinum jubilee service

Monday 30 May 2022 16:00 , Saman Javed

On Friday 3 June, royal family members will gather at St Paul’s Cathedral for a Service of Thanksgiving in celebration of the Queen’s 70-year reign.

The service will include Bible readings, anthems, prayers and congregational hymns, as well as the ringing of Great Paul – the largest church bell in England.

The bell, housed in the cathedral’s southwest tower, weighs approximately 16.5 tonnes.

The service will mark the first time Great Paul has been rung during a royal event after it was repaired in 2018.

Saman Javed has the full story here:

England’s largest church bell will be rung at platinum jubilee service

Greene King pubs now giving away pints for free

Monday 30 May 2022 15:30 , Saman Javed

One of the UK’s biggest pub chains is now offering free pints of its IPA beer to kick off the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations.

Greene King previously announced that it would sell pints at 6p, which is the same price an average pint cost during the Queen’s 1952 coronation.

It has now changed its offer, choosing to forgo the 6p price tag altogether. For one day only, staff at more than 400 pubs will be pulling pints free of charge for anyone who uses the secret code word “1952” at the bar.

Joanna Whitehead has the update:

This pub chain is giving away free pints today for the platinum jubilee

Which platinum jubilee events will Prince Andrew take part in?

Monday 30 May 2022 15:00 , Saman Javed

There has been much speculation about which events the Duke of York will attend this weekend.

Prince Andrew stepped back from royal duties in 2019, and was stripped of his honorary military titles and patronages earlier this year.

In February, he paid an undisclosed sum out of court to settle a civil sexual assault case brought against him in the US by Virginia Giuffre. The duke has continuously denied all claims levied against him.

Buckingham Palace has confirmed that Andrew will not appear on the balcony during the Royal Air Forces flypast because the line-up has been limited to working members of the royal family.

Kate Ng has the full details here:

Which platinum jubilee events will Prince Andrew take part in?

Queen’s beloved corgi breed surges in popularity nationwide

Monday 30 May 2022 14:30 , Saman Javed

The Queen’s favourite dog breed, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, has surged in popularity in the past year, according to new figures from The Kennel Club (TKC).

1,223 corgis were registered in 2021, which is the highest annual figure in nearly three decades.

TKC said the increase in popularity was spurred by the corgi breed’s starring role in the Netflix TV series, The Crown.

Olivia Petter has the details:

Queen’s beloved corgi breed surges in popularity nationwide

Archbishop of Canterbury tests positive for Covid-19

Monday 30 May 2022 13:55 , Saman Javed

The Archbishop of Canterbury has tested positive for Covid-19, and will therefore miss the Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday 3 June.

Archbishop Justin Welby was diagnosed with mild pneumonia last week and has continued to carry out work, but developed symptoms for Covid-19 over the weekend.

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, will preach Friday’s sermon instead.

PA

Who will appear on the balcony during the Trooping the Colour flypast?

Monday 30 May 2022 13:30 , Saman Javed

The Queen’s “official” birthday parade, Trooping the Colour, is taking place on Thursday 2 June.

The annual event sees soldiers, musicians and horses parade down The Mall in London, before the royal family appears on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to a Royal Air Forces flypast.

Earlier this month, Buckingham Palace announced that only working members of the royal family would join the monarch on the balcony. This means that the Duke of York and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not be present.

Saman Javed has the full list of all the royal family members who are expected to appear:

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 2022: Who will be on the balcony during Trooping the Colour?

What events are scheduled to take place this bank holiday weekend?

Monday 30 May 2022 13:00 , Saman Javed

The Queen is set to celebrate her historic reign with a four-day spectacle, including a Platinum Jubilee Pageant, a party at Buckingham Palace and her birthday parade, Trooping the Colour.

Kate Ng has the full details here:

What events are scheduled during the Platinum Jubilee bank holiday?

How to make the official platinum jubilee pudding

Monday 30 May 2022 12:30 , Saman Javed

A lemon and amaretti Swiss roll trifle is the official pudding for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee after beating thousands of entries in a competition to find a new royal dessert.

Created by Jemma Melvin, a copywriter from Southport, the dessert takes inspiration from the lemon posset served at the Queen’s 1947 wedding to Prince Philip.

The trifle is made with layers of lemon curd and custard, St Clement’s jelly, a mandarin coulis made with tinned mandarins, amaretti biscuits, whipped cream and finished with a jewelled chocolate bark.

Fancy making your own? Joanna Whitehead has the full recipe here:

How to make the lemon trifle crowned Platinum Pudding for the Queen’s Jubilee

Treat yourself to a 6p pint today

Monday 30 May 2022 12:00 , Saman Javed

In celebration of the longest reign in British history, one of the UK’s biggest pub chains is offering pints of its IPA beer for just 6p.

For today only, Greene King staff will be pulling pints across its 408 sites at the bargain price, which is the same as an average pint cost during the Queen’s 1952 coronation.

Anyone visiting a Greene King Local Pub or a Flaming Grill site will be able to claim a pint of Greene King’s IPA for just IPA by using the secret code word “1952” at the bar.

Joanna Whitehead has the details here:

This pub chain is serving 6p pints for the platinum jubilee - here’s how to get one

Which events will Harry and Meghan attend?

Monday 30 May 2022 11:30 , Saman Javed

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are set to return to the UK this week with their children, Archie and Lilibet, to attend the celebrations.

It will mark the first time the Sussex family has returned to the UK since Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior members of the royal family in 2020.

While the Sussexes have not confirmed their schedule for the weekend, Saman Javed has the lowdown on everything we know about their visit so far and the events they will reportedly attend:

Queen’s platinum jubilee: Which events will Harry and Meghan attend?

Sunny spells and warm temperatures set for bank holiday weekend

Monday 30 May 2022 11:16 , Saman Javed

It’s good news for those planning street parties and other outdoor events, with the Met Office predicting that there will be “sunny spells” and warmer temperatures.

The unsettled and unseasonably cool start to the week – with some areas seeing below-freezing temperatures on Monday morning – will gradually give way to drier, brighter and warmer weather in time for the long weekend.

Met Office meteorologist Richard Miles told the PA: “It’s fine and dry rather than major sunshine, but good sunny spells. Most people should see a bit of sunshine.”

Miles said those planning to be outdoors should be prepared for all weather eventualities.

“You’d be unlucky if you had to use the umbrella, but take one just in case, because you can never know. You’re more likely to need the sunglasses than the umbrella,” he added.

Most of the UK will enjoy fine and dry conditions with sunny spells on Thursday and Friday, with some areas basking in “plenty of sunshine”, the Met Office said. However, those in central and northern England could see some rain.

“On Saturday and Sunday it’s looking quite settled, with most places seeing quite a bit of fine and dry weather again, with a risk of showers this time in the south east and east coast, maybe,” Miles said.

“It’s looking OK; good dry weather with some sunny spells.”

PA

Boris Johnson shares tribute to the Queen

Monday 30 May 2022 11:00 , Saman Javed

Boris Johnson has called on the British public to “rejoice” and celebrate the “love, devotion and leadership” of the Queen, describing Her Majesty as “Elizabeth the Great”.

Jubilee bank holiday tube strike has been cancelled

Monday 30 May 2022 10:38 , Saman Javed

A planned strike at two London Underground stations over the Jubilee bank holiday has been cancelled.

Around 80 staff at Euston and Green Park were due to stage a walkout on Friday 3 June, causing the stations to potentially shut over the busy long weekend.

But the industrial action has been halted following successful talks between the RMT union and London Underground chiefs.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, said: “I’m pleased that the RMT has suspended their industrial action on 3 June. This good news ensures everyone will be able to make the most of the events in the capital throughout the Platinum Jubilee weekend celebrating Her Majesty’s service to our country.

“This demonstrates the importance of unions working with employers to find solutions. I hope TfL and the RMT can continue to work together on the issues raised.”

Helen Coffey has the details:

Jubilee bank holiday tube strike cancelled

The number of women working past 50 has increased during Queen’s reign

Monday 30 May 2022 10:00 , Saman Javed

The number of women aged 50 and over either in work or looking for jobs has increased by millions in the 70 years since the Queen has been on the throne, according to new research.

While there were 1.3 million women in the age group working or looking for employment in 1952, the figure has increased to 5.1 million now, researchers at Rest Less said.

Read the full story here:

Number of women working past 50 shows big increase during Queen’s reign

The Queen’s popularity is her greatest asset — so what will the firm do once she’s gone?

Monday 30 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

With the Queen’s approval ratings consistently at levels politicians could only ever dream of, we’ve taken a closer look at how the monarch has remained so beloved for 70 years.

Emma Mackenzie has the details:

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

Culture minister urges councils to show ‘a little bit of flexibility’ for late street party applications

Monday 30 May 2022 09:00 , Kate Ng

A culture minister has urged councils to show “a little bit of flexibility” when it comes to issuing licenses for street parties to celebrate the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

Chris Philp was asked on Sky News about councils warning the public against hosting unauthorised platinum jubilee street celebrations.

Philp said: “I think it is fantastic we are celebrating the Queen’s jubilee, and I would just say to local councils around the country, including mine in Croydon, if you do get a late application, and maybe the deadline has technically passed, I would just say to the councils to show a little bit of flexibility, show a little bit of willingness to accommodate people.

“And if you are at all able to, you know, please do grant these requests, even if they are maybe technically after the deadline.”

PA

Royal family to share friendship, food and fun at jubilee lunches

Monday 30 May 2022 08:45 , Kate Ng

Members of the royal family are to share friendship, food and fun at special lunches to celebrate the Queen’s 70-year reign.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall will meet guests at a feast at The Oval cricket ground in south London, while the Earl and Countess of Wessex will join members of the local community in Windsor.

Find out more below:

Royal family to share friendship, food and fun at jubilee lunches

Coronation maid of honour gown and pageboy outfit go on display in Co Fermanagh

Monday 30 May 2022 08:30 , Saman Javed

Two original outfits worn at the Queen’s coronation in 1953 have been rediscovered from storage.

The gown worn by a maid of honour, Lady Moyra Campbell, and an ensemble worn by Lord Erne are set to go on display at Enniskillen Castle in Northern Ireland.

The outfits are being provided by Lady Campbell and Lord Erne’s families, who have carefully preserved the garments.

Read the full story here:

Coronation maid of honour gown and pageboy outfit go on display in Co Fermanagh

Monday 30 May 2022 08:00 , Saman Javed

Good morning and welcome to The Independent’s rolling coverage of the Queen and the wider royal family in the lead-up to next weekend’s platinum jubilee.

Sunday 29 May 2022 16:54 , Laura Hampson

That’s a wrap of our royal coverage today, check back in tomorrow as we begin our countdown to the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

Ed Sheeran to pay tribute to Prince Philip during jubilee pageant

Sunday 29 May 2022 15:33 , Laura Hampson

Ed Sheeran is to perform his love song “Perfect” at the Jubilee Pageant in a special moving tribute to the Queen and her late husband, the Duke of Edinburgh.

At the finale of the carnival procession through the streets of London on Sunday, ahead of the National Anthem, the star will sing the hit romantic ballad as footage featuring images of the Queen and Philip fills the giant screens around the stage.

Find out more information here:

Ed Sheeran to pay tribute to Prince Philip during jubilee pageant

What events will the Queen attend on the platinum jubilee weekend?

Sunday 29 May 2022 14:47 , Laura Hampson

With the Queen thought to be missing the Epsom Derby next weekend, which events will she be attending?

Joanna Whitehead has the run-down here:

What events will the Queen attend on the platinum jubilee weekend?

Queen to ‘miss Epsom Derby’ on platinum jubilee weekend

Sunday 29 May 2022 13:32 , Laura Hampson

The Queen is no longer planning to attend the Epsom Derby during her platinum jubilee weekend.

The 96-year-old monarch is said to want to pace herself during her milestone celebrations, with her daughter the Princess Royal representing her at the racecourse instead, The Sunday Times reported.

However, Buckingham Palace declined to comment, saying Her Majesty’s attendance (or lack thereof) won’t be confirmed until the day-of.

Read the full story here:

Queen to ‘miss Epsom Derby’ on platinum jubilee weekend

In 2018 the Queen sat front row at London Fashion Week

Sunday 29 May 2022 11:53 , Laura Hampson

As part of the Royal Family Twitter account countdown to the platinum jubilee, today they have shared a photo of the Queen from 2018.

It sees Her Majesty seated next to Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour during the Richard Quinn show, where the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for Design was awarded to Quinn.

How to make the ‘Platinum Pudding'

Sunday 29 May 2022 10:38 , Laura Hampson

In preperation for the Queen’s platinum jubilee next weekend, it’s probably time you started thinking about buying in the ingredients to make the official “Platinum Pudding”.

Jemma Melvin’s lemon trifle creation took the crown during the BBC special earlier this month, and you can find the full recipe for the moreish trifle here:

How to make the lemon trifle crowned Platinum Pudding for the Queen’s Jubilee

Johnson praises Queen

Sunday 29 May 2022 09:36 , Laura Hampson

No monarch has ever served their country as well as the Queen, the Prime Minister has said ahead of her platinum jubilee.

Boris Johnson hailed her leadership, wisdom and lifelong service at home and abroad as the world prepares to celebrate her 70-year reign.

In a personal message, he said: “This week the good people of the United Kingdom will pay tribute to Her Majesty the Queen, honouring her exemplary service, celebrating both the institution of the Crown and the exceptional individual who wears it.”

You can read Johnson’s full message here:

Johnson praises Queen saying ‘no monarch has served the country so well’

Sunday 29 May 2022 08:53 , Laura Hampson

Good morning and welcome to The Independent’s rolling coverage of the Queen and the wider royal family in the lead-up to next weekend’s platinum jubilee.

Saturday 28 May 2022 18:04 , Laura Hampson

That’s a wrap of our jubilee coverage today. Please tune in again tomorrow morning for further updates on the Queen and the wider royal family.

How to get a 6p pint ahead of the platinum jubilee

Saturday 28 May 2022 17:18 , Laura Hampson

In case you missed it, Greene King is selling pints at its pubs nationwide for just 6p in the lead-up to the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

On Monday 30 May only, Greene King staff will be pulling pints across its 408 sites at the bargain price, which is the same as an average pint cost during the Queen’s 1952 coronation.

Anyone visiting a Greene King Local Pub or a Flaming Grill site will be able to claim a pint of Greene King’s IPA for just IPA by using the secret code word “1952” at the bar.

Joanna Whitehead has the full story:

This pub chain is serving 6p pints for the platinum jubilee - here’s how to get one

Prince William leads Trooping the Colour rehearsal ahead of bank holiday weekend

Saturday 28 May 2022 16:37 , Laura Hampson

The Duke of Cambridge has led a dress rehearsal in London today for the Trooping the Colour parade ahead of next week’s celebrations.

The colour of the Irish Guards will be trooped at this year’s event and Prince William, as Colonel of the Regiment, led the full dress rehearsal at Horse Guards Parade on Saturday.

William, on horseback, oversaw the 90-minute rehearsal for the annual military spectacle which will this year kick off the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations during the long bank holiday weekend.

Laura Hampson has the full report:

Prince William leads Trooping the Colour rehearsal ahead of bank holiday weekend

Queen takes Scottish break ahead of platinum jubilee weekend

Saturday 28 May 2022 15:43 , Laura Hampson

The Queen has travelled to Balmoral for a short break ahead of platinum jubilee celebrations which begin next week.

The monarch has attended a number of high-profile engagements in recent weeks and it is understood the head of state is now pacing herself before the national events start.

In past years the Queen has usually visited her private Scottish home at the start of the summer and it is understood she arrived at her highland retreat on Thursday.

Read the full report here:

Queen takes Scottish break ahead of platinum jubilee weekend

Student designer of Jubilee emblem says seeing it everywhere is a ‘pleasure’

Saturday 28 May 2022 14:26 , Laura Hampson

The student who designed the official platinum jubilee emblem has said it is a “pleasure” to see his creation on everything from London buses to chocolate bars and coins.

Graphic design student Edward Roberts, from Southwell, Nottinghamshire, also said he feels “honoured” to have been invited to the official celebrations on the bank holiday weekend.

The 19-year-old’s design was selected as the winning entry in The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Emblem Competition, run by the Victoria & Albert Museum in conjunction with Buckingham Palace.

Read the full report here:

Student designer of Jubilee emblem says seeing it everywhere is a ‘pleasure’

What will the weather be like for the platinum jubilee weekend?

Saturday 28 May 2022 13:47 , Laura Hampson

The UK is set to bask in sunshine at the start of the weekend but cooler, more unsettled weather will take over ahead of the Jubilee weekend, forecasters have said.

With all eyes on the forecast for the four-day bank holiday, the Met Office said that while there is still “plenty of detail to work out”, a showery start could make way for finer, warmer conditions for the celebrations.

The sunny weather enjoyed by many on Friday is set to last until Saturday for most, according to the Met Office.

Read more here:

Sunny Saturday to give way to mixed weather ahead of Jubilee

Jubilee fund worth £3 million announced to improve 125 village halls

Saturday 28 May 2022 12:58 , Laura Hampson

A new £3 million fund to upgrade and renovate England’s village halls has been announced by the Government to mark the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

Over a three-year period, the Platinum Jubilee Village Hall Improvement Grant Fund will provide money for projects such as installing wifi, extending buildings and modernising facilities.

Find out more here:

Jubilee fund worth £3 million announced to improve 125 village halls

More than 16,000 street parties planned for platinum jubilee weekend

Saturday 28 May 2022 12:04 , Laura Hampson

More than 16,000 street parties are set to take place across England in celebration of the Queen’s platinum jubilee next month.

The 96-year-old monarch will celebrate 70 years on the throne with a four-day weekend of festivities, beginning on 2 June.

The four-day spectacle will include a Platinum Jubilee Pageant, a Platinum Party at the Palace and the Queen’s birthday parade, Trooping the Colour.

Saman Javed has the full report:

More than 16,000 street parties planned for platinum jubilee weekend

Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

Saturday 28 May 2022 11:36 , Laura Hampson

Have you voted in our new poll yet?

The Independent is asking our readers which royal family member is their favourite, and we would love to know what you think.

Are you a devoted fan of Her Majesty? A sucker for Kate Middleton’s fashion sense? Find out how to vote here:

Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

Where will Meghan and Harry stay during the Queen’s jubilee?

Saturday 28 May 2022 10:25 , Laura Hampson

With Prince Harry and Meghan Markle set to return to the UK on an official visit next week for the first time since they stepped down as senior members of the royal family, there’s one question we’ve all been asking: Where will they stay?

Chelsea Ritschel has the answer:

Where will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stay during Queen’s Platinum Jubilee?

Kate makes nod to Meghan and Harry during garden party

Saturday 28 May 2022 09:12 , Laura Hampson

In case you missed it, Kate Middleton appeared to make a nod to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry during a garden party she attended at Buckingham Palace this week.

The Duchess of Cambridge wore a similar style of headwear that she wore to the Sussex’s wedding in 2018.

Harry and Meghan are expected to head to the UK with their two children, Archie and Lilibet, to celebrate the Queen’s platinum jubilee next week.

Saman Javed reports:

Kate Middleton makes nod to Meghan and Harry during Queen’s garden party

Saturday 28 May 2022 08:36 , Laura Hampson

Good morning and welcome to The Independent’s rolling coverage of the Queen, the royal family and the platinum jubilee.

Friday 27 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

Thanks for joining us today! See you tomorrow when we return to bring you the latest updates on the Queen and the royal family as the platinum jubilee weekend quickly approaches.

POLL: Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

Friday 27 May 2022 17:30 , Kate Ng

There are just days to go until the Queen’s platinum jubilee and whether you’re spending the upcoming Bank Holiday being patriotic or will be avoiding all union jacks, we want to know; do you have a favourite royal and if so, who?

Have your say in the poll below:

Who’s your favourite member of the royal family?

What the royal family have said about The Crown

Friday 27 May 2022 16:30 , Kate Ng

While we’re big fans of Netflix’s The Crown over here, the royal family aren’t so keen on the highly-popular series about, well, themselves.

In September 2019, palace officials actually released a statement making it clear that the royal family has nothing to do with how its members are portrayed in The Crown.

Culture reporter Ellie Muir takes a look at everything the royal family has said about the series:

What members of the royal family think of The Crown

Score a royal bargain for platinum jubilee

Friday 27 May 2022 15:30 , Kate Ng

As Britons prepare to spend the four-day platinum jubilee weekend marking the Queen’s 70^th year on the throne, restaurants, supermarket and food delivery services have launched special deals and discounts to help the nation celebrate.

To help you get the most royal bang for your buck, we;’ve rounded up food and drink offers and giveaways that are launching in the coming days.

All the food and drink deals over the platinum jubilee bank holiday

Queen travels to Balmoral ahead of platinum jubilee celebrations

Friday 27 May 2022 14:44 , Kate Ng

The Queen has travelled to Balmoral for a short break ahead of the platinum jubilee celebrations which begin next week.

The monarch has attended a number of high-profile engagements in recent weeks and it is understood she is now pacing herself before the national events start.

It is understood the Queen arrived at her private Scottish home on Thursday. She usually visits Scotland at this time of year.

PA

Hopes London’s £80m Jubilee celebrations will kickstart economic recovery

Friday 27 May 2022 14:30 , Kate Ng

Celebrations taking place in London’s West End to mark the Queen’s platinum jubilee could be worth £80m and kickstart the economic recovery of the entire UK, according to new research.

Joanna Whitehead reports:

Hopes London’s £80m Jubilee celebrations will kickstart economic recovery

WATCH: 6 things to know about the Queen’s platinum jubilee

Friday 27 May 2022 13:30 , Kate Ng

Although she is the first monarch to celebrate 70 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II isn’t the first royal to celebrate landmark dates in style.

Since George III in 1809, monarchs have been commemorated in a variety of different ways, including with parties, pageants and world tours.

Watch our latest IndyTV to discover six things about the royals and their jubilees, ahead of the Queen’s June celebrations:

6 things to know about the Queen’s platinum jubilee

Trooping the Colour: How is the Queen celebrating her platinum jubilee?

Friday 27 May 2022 12:30 , Kate Ng

On Thursday 2 June, the Queen will celebrate her “official” birthday with a military parade.

The annual celebration, known as Trooping the Colour, is held on the Mall outside Buckingham Palace. It will mark the start of an extended bank holiday weekend full of events to honour the Queen for her platinum jubilee.

Here’s everything you need to know about Trooping the Colour this year:

Trooping the Colour 2022: How is the Queen celebrating and who will join?

Meghan Markle made a surprise visit to Uvalde following school shooting

Friday 27 May 2022 11:30 , Kate Ng

Meghan Markle is being commended for her dedication to helping others after she visited Uvalde, Texas, to donate food to a community centre and pay her respects to the 19 children and two adults killed in Tuesday’s elementary school shooting.

On Thursday, the Duchess of Sussex was photographed laying a bouquet of flowers outside a makeshift memorial of white crosses bearing the names of the victims of the school shooting.

Chelsea Ritschel reports:

Meghan Markle commended for surprise visit to Uvalde school shooting memorial

Why does the Queen love corgis so much?

Friday 27 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

For over eight decades, from 1933 to 2018, Queen Elizabeth II has owned at least one corgi – a dog breed that has become as synonymous with Her Majesty as Buckingham Palace.

Learn more about the Queen’s history with the big-eared, short-legged pooches:

The Queen and her corgis: Why the monarch is so fond of the breed

Prince Andrew expected to join Queen at Jubilee Service of Thanksgiving

Friday 27 May 2022 09:45 , Kate Ng

Prince Andrew is expected to join the Queen at her Service of Thanksgiving scheduled to take place at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday 3 June.

The event, which will take place on day two of the monarch’s four-day platinum jubilee celebrations, will mark the largest gathering of the royal family since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding at Windsor Castle in 2018.

Prince Andrew expected to join Queen at Jubilee Service of Thanksgiving

Thousands of newly-planted trees dedicated to Queen for platinum jubilee

Friday 27 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

More than 12,000 trees planted to help “re-nature” the South Downs National Park have been dedicated to the Queen to mark her Platinum Jubilee.

The trees have been planted at 30 sites across Hampshire, West Sussex and East Sussex for the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative.

Find out more below:

Thousands of newly-planted trees dedicated to Queen for Platinum Jubilee

Portrait of Queen painted by robot unveiled

Friday 27 May 2022 08:30 , Kate Ng

A portrait of the Queen painted by a humanoid robot artist has been unveiled in celebration of the platinum jubilee.

The painting, titled Algorithm Queen, is an abstract, multi-dimensional portrait of the monarch, painted by Ai-Da, an artificial intelligence robot — named after 18th century mathematician and scientist Ada Lovelace, who is considered to be the first computer programmer.

Ellie Muir reports:

A robot called Ai-Da has painted a portrait of the Queen to celebrate the Jubilee

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