The Queen pledged to continue serving as monarch “to the best of my ability supported by my family” at the end of her spectacular Platinum Jubilee weekend.
The 96-year-old monarch said there had been “no guidebook to follow” over her seven-decade reign and she was “humbled and deeply touched” by commemorations.
In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, Her Majesty added “my heart has been with you all” even though she missed parts of the four-day celebrations.
She said: “When it comes to how to mark 70 years as your Queen, there is no guidebook to follow.
“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.”
The Queen added: “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.
“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.
“I thank you most sincerely for your good wishes and for the part you have all played in these happy celebrations.”
Her message was signed Elizabeth R.
It comes as the Queen delighted spectators by appearing on the Buckingham Palace balcony following the Platinum Pageant on Sunday afternoon.
It was a moment for the history books, filled with poignancy, as the frail one-of-a-kind monarch, resplendent in vivid green.
Flanked by her three heirs – son, grandson and great-grandson – it offered a glimpse into the monarchy’s future.
She shared the stage with just seven of her family – the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince George, as well as two future Queens – the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duchess of Cambridge – and Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
As the monarch walked slowly and carefully onto the famous frontage, Charles placed his hand on his mother’s elbow, guiding her as her white gloved hand clutched a walking stick.
As the national anthem was sung, the Queen surveyed the scenes before her, deep in thought, as huge crowds stretching hundreds of yards down The Mall.
Then with smiles and a few waves of her white-gloved hands, she turned and was gone, back through the doors, achieving her aim of being seen to be believed in less than three minutes.
The Queen served as the uniting focal point for the four days of festivities.
On Saturday night, royal fans were left gobsmacked when she appeared in a hilarious sketch with Paddington Bear to mark the start of the Platinum Jubilee concert.
The pre-recorded film saw film favourite Paddington rocking up at Buckingham Palace in his duffle coat for an afternoon cream tea with Her Majesty.
Paddington, voiced by James Bond star Ben Whishaw, then describes his love of marmalade sandwiches, and reveals that he usually hides them.
The Queen then opened her black handbag to tell the wide-eyed bear: “I keep mine in here”, before pulling one out to show him.
Following the release of the film, Buckingham Palace commented: “Her Majesty is well known for her sense of humour, so it should be no surprise that she decided to take part in tonight’s sketch.
“There was an interest in the filming and animation process and the opportunity to invite a famous bear to tea was just too much fun to miss.
“While The Queen may not be attending the concert in person, she was very keen that people understood how much it meant to her and that all those watching had a great time.”
The Queen was on public view in person for just over 27 minutes throughout the weekend.
Her sanctuary as she rested was Windsor Castle, where, granddaughter Zara Tindall said, she watched the Epsom Derby in her “comfy clothes”.
