The Queen delighted thousands of Pageant-goers when she appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to round off an epic weekend of celebrations to mark the Platinum Jubilee. The 96-year-old monarch was absent for much of the extended Bank Holiday weekend as millions celebrated her 70-year reign.
Surrounded by her family, the Queen was cheered by thousands of well-wishers after stepping onto the balcony following the Platinum Pageant, which told the story of her life, and the nation, with an eccentric, fun and imaginative carnival-like display with many famous faces waving to crowds on open-top buses.
After the outpouring of public affection during her balcony appearance, the Queen said she was “humbled and deeply touched” so many people had taken part in celebrations marking her 70-year reign. She said she remains "committed to serving" the nation to "the best of my ability", after cutting back on her public appearances due to 'discomfort'.
