The Queen has appeared at the balcony of Buckingham Palace, delighting fans who had hoped to catch a glimpse of her during celebrations marking the monarch’s 70 years on the throne.
Tens of thousands of people partied in the street and cheered on parades through central London, while millions watched a pop concert outside Buckingham Palace which was broadcast on live television.
In a message to the nation, the Queen thanked the public for their good wishes.
“When it comes to how to mark 70 years as your Queen, there is no guidebook to follow,” she said in a statement on Monday morning (Australian time)
“It really is a first. But I have been humbled and deeply touched that so many people have taken to the streets to celebrate my Platinum Jubilee.
“While I may not have attended every event in person, my heart has been with you all; and I remain committed to serving you to the best of my ability, supported by my family.”
The monarch added: “I have been inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that has been so evident in recent days, and I hope this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come.”
The Queen had missed most of the celebrations after experiencing ‘discomfort’. Photo: Getty
The 96-year-old monarch has curtailed her schedule in recent months due to problems moving around.
Prior to her balcony appearance, the queen had only been seen in public twice during the four-day holiday weekend celebrations.
Thousands massed outside Buckingham Palace for the climax of a boisterous, colourful pageant cheered as the monarch appeared on the balcony with her son and heir, Prince Charles, his wife Camilla, and her eldest grandson Prince William and his family.
