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Queen news - live: Royal family to join in on jubilee lunches this bank holiday weekend

The Queen is set to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee in June with a four-day bank holiday weekend.

The weekend, which will begin on Thursday 2 June and end on Sunday 5 June, will see several events take place involving members of the royal family.

These include Trooping the Colour, a Service of Thanksgiving, the Platinum beacons, a Platinum Jubilee pageant and a star-studded concert.

Prince Andrew is expected to attend the Service of Thanksgiving scheduled to take place at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday 3 June - marking the largest gathering of the royal family since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding at Windsor Castle in 2018.

Members of the royal family are to share friendship, food and fun at special lunches to celebrate the Queen’s 70-year reign, with the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall meeting guests at a feast at The Oval cricket ground, while the Earl and Countess of Wessex will join members of the local community in Windsor.

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

Buckingham Palace has said the Queen’s attendance at Jubilee weekend events aren’t likely to be confirmed until the day-of.

Follow our liveblog for all of the latest updates on the Queen as she prepares to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee.

Key points

  • When is the Platinum Jubilee?

  • 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

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

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

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

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 70th 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

Unseen footage shows glimpse of ‘fun behind the formality’ of the Queen’s life

Friday 27 May 2022 07:44 , Kate Ng

The Queen will allow the world to see touching glimpses of “the fun behind the formality” of her royal life in home movies that have been released for the first time.

The clips, which span her life from being a baby pushed in a pram by her mother to her coronation in 1953 at the age of 27, come as she is set to celebrate her platinum jubilee.

Find out what to expect from the upcoming BBC documentary, Elizabeth: The Unseen Queen:

Unseen footage shows glimpse of ‘fun behind the formality’ of the Queen’s life

Friday 27 May 2022 07:43 , Kate Ng

Good morning, and welcome back to The Independent’s liveblog following the latest updates about the Queen and the royal family. The big platinum jubilee weekend is now just under a week away.

Thursday 26 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

Thanks for joining us for our live coverage of the Queen and the royal family today. Come back tomorrow when we continue to bring you the latest updates in the run-up to the platinum jubilee weekend.

‘Make Elizabeth the last’ anti-monarchy campaigners urge ahead of platinum jubilee

Thursday 26 May 2022 17:30 , Kate Ng

An anti-monarchy pressure group has plastered billboards across the country urging ‘Make Elizabeth the last’ ahead of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations next week.

Above the faces of Prince Andrew, Prince William and Prince Charles, the advert says #AbolishtheMonarchy.

Maryam Zakir-Hussain reports:

‘Make Elizabeth the last’ anti-monarchy campaigners urge ahead of platinum jubilee

Why does the Queen love corgis so much?

Thursday 26 May 2022 16:30 , 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.

But where did it all begin? Rachel Burchfield delves deep:

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

12 fascinating things we learned from royal experts ahead of the platinum jubilee

Thursday 26 May 2022 15:30 , Kate Ng

Royal expert Sean O’Grady was joined by former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond during an event for The Independent last week, where the pair spoke about the highs and lows of the royal family.

Deputy Lifestyle Editor Laura Hampson, who hosted the event, reveals all the things we learned from our panellists:

The monarchy could have ‘disappeared’ if Charles was already King

When are the Jubilee bank holidays? The full list for 2022

Thursday 26 May 2022 14:30 , Kate Ng

Mark your calendars if you haven’t already:

When are the Jubilee bank holidays? The full list for 2022

Everything the Queen eats in a day, according to royal chefs

Thursday 26 May 2022 13:30 , Kate Ng

The Queen’s former chef, Darren McGrady, has drawn back the curtain and revealed Her Majesty’s private dining habits, having previously spoken about her preferred drinks.

In his book “Eating Royally: Recipes and Remembrances from a Palace Kitchen”, McGrady revealed the Queen’s dining preferences, her favourite meals and the things she is not a fan of on the dinner table.

Find out what Her Majesty’s preferences are below:

Everything the Queen eats in a day, according to royal chefs

Royal corgi revealed as platinum jubilee emoji

Thursday 26 May 2022 13:07 , Kate Ng

The royal family’s Platinum Jubilee emoji has been unveiled – a crown-wearing corgi called PJ.

The cartoon image of the cheerful dog – the Queen’s favourite breed – appeared on the monarchy’s official Twitter account, with the message: “Meet PJ the corgi, our Jubilee emoji!”

Find out more about PJ below:

Royal corgi revealed as platinum jubilee emoji

Aldi has turned the Queen into a carrot for the platinum jubilee

Thursday 26 May 2022 12:30 , Kate Ng

Kevin the carrot, Aldi’s famous mascot, has featured in many a Christmas advert, with its giant toys becoming quite the sellout. And now, to mark the platinum jubilee, he’s back as a lookalike for Her Majesty.

Yes, you read that right, Kevin is now the Queen (not literally, of course) and is even donning a pretty purple dress, pearls and a crown. There are also a variety of other patriotic characters to get your hands on, including a Prince Charles lookalike and corgis!

IndyBest reporter Lauren Cunningham has all the details on how you can get your hands on these royal plushies:

Aldi has turned the Queen into a carrot for the royal jubilee

Kate Middleton reunites with Holocaust survivor

Thursday 26 May 2022 11:32 , Kate Ng

The Duchess of Cambridge has said she will “never forget” the story of a Holocaust survivor she met at a Buckingham Palace garden party.

Manfred Goldberg, 92, was one of the first guests Kate greeted on Wednesday as rain descended on the third garden party to take place at the palace this year.

The Duchess of Cambridge meeting guests during a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in London (PA)
The Duchess of Cambridge meeting guests during a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace in London (PA)

She first met Goldberg in 2017 on a visit to Stutthof, the concentration camp in Nazi-occupied Poland where he spent eight months, and spoke to him by videolink last year.

“As she came along, she said, ‘Oh hello Manfred, how lovely to see you’,” said Goldberg, who works for the Holocaust Education Trust.

“She also thanked me for all the hard work I have been doing over the years, speaking to thousands of school children, mainly of A-level grades, who are old enough to really understand.

 (PA)
(PA)

“Then I complimented her on remembering our previous conversations years back. She said, ‘I will never forget’.

“So I think it made an impact. Yes, absolutely.”

Goldberg, who was born into an Orthodox Jewish family in Kassell, Germany, was sent to a Nazi labour camp in Latvia at the age of 11.

In 1944, he was moved to Stutthof - where tens of thousands of Jews were murdered - and was set free days after his 15th birthday the following year.

 (PA)
(PA)

He met the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the camp 72 years later, having a conversation that Kate later said “remained absolutely clear in my mind”.

Goldberg said: “They had never set foot in a concentration camp and they actually had the - I wouldn’t say foresight - but the clarity that they needed to speak to people who actually experienced it as it was then.

“There is a walk-through museum now... to an outsider it would still be cruel, but it has all been sanitised.

“The questions they asked us clarified to them how much worse it actually was.”

PA

It’s time for royal tours to end

Thursday 26 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

In light of the troubles that recent royal tours have run into, Emma Mackenzie questions whether they should continue:

It’s time for royal tours to end

Boris Johnson to pay tribute to ‘remarkable’ Queen in Parliament address

Thursday 26 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

Boris Johnson will pay tribute to the “remarkable” Queen in an address to Parliament ahead of her platinum jubilee.

The prime minister will say that the Queen’s length of service and dedication to duty are “without parallel” and will make his tribute while proposing a Humble Address in Parliament.

He will say: “Today we pay tribute to a head of state whose length of service and dedication to duty to are simply without parallel.

“The only monarch most of us in this country have ever known and the rock to which our nation and our people have been anchored throughout all that the past 70 years have thrown at us.”

He will add that the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth will be “unabashed” in celebrating her.

“That is why next week the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth will be unabashed in celebrating not the institution of the Crown but the individual who wears it,” he will tell parliament.

“This remarkable woman who by God and her right has led her country through good times and bad.

“Who has dedicated her life to her people, to her beloved Commonwealth, to the very idea of what a constitutional monarchy can and should be.”

PA

Charles laments ‘nightmare situation’ during visit to Ukraine refugee centre

Thursday 26 May 2022 08:35 , Kate Ng

The Prince of Wales has spoken out about the “nightmare situation” in Ukraine during a trip to Romania to meet refugees who have fled the war in their homeland.

Charles was joined by distant relative Margareta, head of the Romanian royal family, for the unannounced tour of a donation centre for refugees in the capital Bucharest.

Find out more about his visit below:

Charles laments ‘nightmare situation’ during visit to Ukraine refugee centre

Thursday 26 May 2022 08:31 , Kate Ng

Good morning, and welcome once again to our liveblog following all the latest updates on the Queen and members of the royal family as the platinum jubilee weekend approaches.

Wednesday 25 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

That’s a wrap on our live coverage of the Queen and the royal family today. See you tomorrow, when we return to bring you further updates on the platinum jubilee weekend.

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 17:30 , Kate Ng

The platinum jubilee weekend will be packed with deals and discounts from food and drink retailers across the country.

From 25 per cent off instant grocery delivery to a competition where £500 vouchers are up for grabs, we’ve rounded up all the offers you could benefit from as the bank holiday approaches.

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

Huge 70-ft ‘Tree of Trees’ sculpture erected outside Buckingham Palace

Wednesday 25 May 2022 16:30 , Kate Ng

A tree-like structure measuring 70-feet high, with 350 native British trees adorning its “branches”, has been erected outside Buckingham Palace for the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

The huge sculpture was completed on Tuesday. It was designed by architect and designer Thomas Heatherwick, who said Her Majesty herself gave approval for the plans with a “big thumbs up”.

A team of workers add the final parts to the Queen's Green Canopy ahead of the Platinum Jubilee (Getty Images)
A team of workers add the final parts to the Queen's Green Canopy ahead of the Platinum Jubilee (Getty Images)

To help complete the sculpture, junior foresters visited the palace and planted a batch of six-foot saplings in pots that had the monarch’s cypher embossed on them.

They also helped weave LED lights through the structure, which will serve as the principal beacon on the first evening of the bank holiday weekend.

A team of workers add the final parts to the Queen's Green Canopy ahead of the Platinum Jubilee (Getty Images)
A team of workers add the final parts to the Queen's Green Canopy ahead of the Platinum Jubilee (Getty Images)

A massive team of hundreds of welders, arborists, engineers and fabricators have been working on the project, which Heatherwick said he designed in just one week.

Heatherwick told ITV News: “This sculpture acts like a beacon sending one simple, eternal message that trees are the superheroes of our towns and cities and matter much more to our lives than we realise.

Thomas Heatherwick, designer of the Tree of Trees sculpture, part of the Queen's Green Canopy Project placed in front of Buckingham Palace, ahead of the Platinum Jubilee (AP)
Thomas Heatherwick, designer of the Tree of Trees sculpture, part of the Queen's Green Canopy Project placed in front of Buckingham Palace, ahead of the Platinum Jubilee (AP)

“We need reminding [of] how much trees humanise the world around us and they can’t be taken for granted.

“The tree twists and spirals symbolically spraying an array of 350 baby trees towards their final homes across the country - a symbol of the much bigget initiative of planting.”

Wax figures of Harry and Meghan rejoin royal family at Madam Tussauds

Wednesday 25 May 2022 15:30 , Kate Ng

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have rejoined the royal family at Madame Tussauds to celebrate the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

Waxwork figures of the main family members have received a black tie makeover in preparation for the event marking the monarch’s 70-year reign on 5 June.

Wax figures of Queen Elizabeth II and members of the royal family at Madame Tussauds London ahead the Platinum Jubilee celebrations (PA)
Wax figures of Queen Elizabeth II and members of the royal family at Madame Tussauds London ahead the Platinum Jubilee celebrations (PA)

The reunion at the London attraction brings the Sussexes back together publicly with the family for the first time since their move to the US in 2020.

Meghan’s waxwork has been dressed in a red, caped Safiyaa gown, which she wore on one of her last royal engagements at the Mountbatten Festival of Music at the Royal Albert Hall in London in March 2020.

 (REUTERS)
(REUTERS)

The Queen’s waxwork, which is the 23rd of 24 created of the monarch by Madame Tussauds London across her 70-year reign, has been dressed in a recreation of the garment she wore in her official Diamond Jubilee portrait.

The white and silver lace dress is covered in 53,000 Swarovski elements, completed with a blue silk sash and topped off by a replica of the diamond and pearl George IV State Diadem.

Royal fans can also view the Royal Dress Collection that will be on display at Madame Tussauds London from 27 May, showcasing seven gowns that have graced some of the Queen’s 24 figures created during her 70-year reign.

PA

From Salad Queen to LamQueeni, all the jubilee-themed food you can buy

Wednesday 25 May 2022 14:30 , Kate Ng

Nothing says “70 years on the throne” quite like “Salad Queen” and “LamQueenie”, among countless other jubilee specials that have emerged to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s long reign – the longest of any British monarch.

With the Queen’s big platinum jubilee weekend drawing ever closer, brands have released a plethora of royal-themed food and drink products to mark Her Majesty’s historic milestone. We’ve rounded them all up for your jubilee feasting needs:

From Salad Queen to LamQueeni, all the jubilee-themed food you can buy

70 fun facts about the Queen

Wednesday 25 May 2022 13:30 , Kate Ng

To celebrate Her Majesty’s milestone, Buckingham Palace has released 70 facts about the Queen to celebrate her seven-decade reign.

From becoming the longest-reigning monarch in British history, to her first trip on the London Underground, and details from her wedding to Prince Philip, here are some things you might not know about Queen Elizabeth II.

70 facts about the Queen to mark her Platinum Jubilee

Which platinum jubilee events will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle attend?

Wednesday 25 May 2022 12:30 , Kate Ng

With the Duke and Duchess of Sussex attending the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations next week, you may be wondering which events they will be present for.

My colleague Saman Javed has the answers:

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

Where will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stay during the platinum jubilee?

Wednesday 25 May 2022 11:30 , Kate Ng

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have confirmed they will be attending Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations along with their two children this month.

The scheduled June visit to the UK will mark the first time the 96-year-old monarch has met the couple’s daughter, Lilibet Diana, 11 months.

But where will the Sussexes stay when they are here? Chelsea Ritschel investigates:

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

Royal mint unveils largest-ever 15kg gold coin for Queen’s platinum jubilee

Wednesday 25 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

The Royal Mint has created a 15kg gold coin in celebration of the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

The special coin, which is the largest to ever be produced in the mint’s 1,100-year history, has a diameter of 220cm.

Saman Javed reports:

Royal mint unveils largest-ever 15kg gold coin for Queen’s platinum jubilee

Queen is a ‘girl in pearls’ with a difference for new Country Life frontispiece

Wednesday 25 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

The Queen has appeared as one of Country Life’s famous “girls in pearls” for the platinum jubilee, with a portrait collage made up of fragments of the sovereign at different stages of her life.

The artwork, entitled “Faces Of A Monarch”, has been created by artist James Vaulkhard for the 125-year-old magazine in honour of the head of state’s milestone.

Queen is a ‘girl in pearls’ with a difference for new Country Life frontispiece

Eurovision star Sam Ryder is ‘speechless’ about performing at the Queen’s jubilee concert

Wednesday 25 May 2022 08:48 , Kate Ng

Sam Ryder is “a bit speechless” about being selected as one of the acts to perform at the Queen’s platinum jubilee concert.

The Eurovision star –who represented the UK in the 2022 contest – has been celebrating ever since competing in Turin, Italy, where he came in second place with an impressive 466 points.

Culture Reporter Nicole Vassell has the full story:

Eurovision star Sam Ryder is ‘speechless’ about performing at the Jubilee concert

Wednesday 25 May 2022 08:38 , Kate Ng

Good morning, and welcome back to The Independent’s liveblog following all the latest updates on the Queen. Her Majesty’s big platinum jubilee weekend is imminent, and we will keep you in the loop as the celebrations draw nearer.

Tuesday 24 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

Thank you for following our live coverage of the Queen’s platinum jubilee and all things related to the royal family today. Come back tomorrow to join us again as we continue to report in the lead-up to the big platinum jubilee weekend.

Prince William says awarding damehood to Deborah James was ‘amazing for her family’

Tuesday 24 May 2022 18:00 , Kate Ng

The Duke of Cambridge has spoken about the experience of giving Deborah James her Damehood, calling it “amazing”.

Prince William paid a visit to her at home earlier this month to present her with the award in person.

Olivia Petter reports:

Prince William says awarding damehood to Deborah James was ‘amazing for her family’

The Queen meets The Amir of Qatar

Tuesday 24 May 2022 17:54 , Laura Hampson

The Queen has met The Amir of Qatar this afternoon at Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace tweeted.

How old was Her Majesty when she became the Queen?

Tuesday 24 May 2022 17:00 , Kate Ng

The platinum jubilee is a chance to reflect on the past 70 years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, the longest of any British monarch in history.

But when was the Queen crowned sovereign and how old was the Queen when she became the Queen? Here’s everything you need to know.

How old was the Queen when she became the Queen?

The best films and TV series about Queen Elizabeth II to watch on Netflix

Tuesday 24 May 2022 16:00 , Kate Ng

From Oscar-winning biopics to TV documentaries, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to depictions of HRH on screen.

Our Culture Reporter Louis Chilton has listed a handful of the best – and a couple of less conventional picks for any republicans out there looking for some alternative Jubilee messaging.

The best films and TV series about the Queen to watch on Netflix

How is the Queen celebrating her platinum jubilee and who will join?

Tuesday 24 May 2022 15:00 , 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.

The event will also include an appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace from members of the royal family.

Saman Javed has everything you need to know about this year’s Trooping the Colour:

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

Which platinum jubilee events will Harry and Meghan attend?

Tuesday 24 May 2022 14:00 , Kate Ng

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have confirmed they will be visiting the UK for the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations next month, along with their two children, Archie, 3, and baby daughter Lilibet.

It will mark the first time the Sussexes have returned to the UK with their children since they stepped down as senior members of the royal family in 2020.

Saman Javed has all the answers to your questions about which events they will be attending:

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

Queen reacts to the John Ystumllyn rose being planted at Chelsea Flower Show

Tuesday 24 May 2022 13:00 , Kate Ng

Yesterday, the first rose named after a person from an ethnic minority background was planted at the RHS Chelsea Flower show.

Named after John Ystumllyn, who was one of the UK’s first Black gardeners in the 18th century, the yellow rose “represents the values of friendship and community”.

The Queen released a statement in response to the planting of the rose and said she was “pleased” about it.

Read her full statement below:

What will pub opening hours on platinum jubilee weekend be like?

Tuesday 24 May 2022 12:00 , Kate Ng

Keen to raise a late-night toast to her majesty over the jubilee weekend? Depending on which part of the UK you’re in, you may well be in luck.

Joanna Whitehead has put together this handy guide for your pub planning needs:

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

Everything that happened at the Queen’s previous jubilees

Tuesday 24 May 2022 11:00 , 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.

Find out more about how the monarch celebrated each milestone below:

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

How to throw a jubilee street party

Tuesday 24 May 2022 10:00 , Kate Ng

Street parties are a traditional part of British celebrations, so why not throw one for the Queen’s platinum jubilee? Find out how to organise a royal bash below:

How to throw a jubilee street party

Queen tours Chelsea Flower show in electric buggy

Tuesday 24 May 2022 08:54 , Kate Ng

The Queen has made a surprise appearance at the Chelsea Flower Show in an electric buggy, delighting attendees as she toured the sprawling horticultural event while smiling from the mini vehicle.

In a statement to the BBC, Buckingham Palace said the royal’s attendance at the annual flower show came after “adjustments [had] been made for the Queen’s comfort”.

Chelsea Ritschel reports:

The Queen tours Chelsea Flower Show in a buggy

Tuesday 24 May 2022 08:41 , Kate Ng

Good morning, and welcome back to The Independent’s liveblog following all the royal coverage leading up to the Queen’s platinum jubilee weekend.

Monday 23 May 2022 18:00 , Kate Ng

That’s a wrap for today’s liveblog, come back tomorrow for more live updates on the Queen, the royal family and the upcoming platinum jubilee.

Tesco is giving ‘everyday heroes’ £700 to celebrate Jubilee

Monday 23 May 2022 17:00 , Kate Ng

Tesco has launched a limited edition Jubilee card in honour of the Queen’s 70th year on the throne.

The special card will offer recipients £700 to spend at Tesco, either in-store or online.

Olivia Petter reports:

Tesco is giving ‘everyday heroes’ £700 to celebrate Jubilee

Plan your supermarket shop ahead of platinum jubilee weekend

Monday 23 May 2022 16:00 , Kate Ng

Here’s everything you need to know about what time supermarkets are open over the bank holiday weekend:

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

Women fleeing abuse ‘have nothing to be ashamed of’, the Duchess of Cornwall says

Monday 23 May 2022 15:00 , Kate Ng

The Duchess of Cornwall has said women fleeing domestic abuse “have nothing to be ashamed of” as she visited a refuge in Canada.

Camilla was visiting a YWCA transitional housing centre in Yellowknife, the capital of the Northwest Territories, which can house up to 18 victims of violence and their children.

Read more about her visit in Canada:

Camilla says women fleeing abuse ‘have nothing to be ashamed of’

How you can take part in the platinum jubilee beacons

Monday 23 May 2022 14:00 , Kate Ng

Platinum jubilee beacons are an international recognition of the Queen’s service, and will be lit across the UK and the Commonwealth during the bank holiday weekend.

Here’s how you can get involved:

What are the platinum jubilee beacons and how can I take part?

Everything you need to know about the Platinum Jubilee Pageant

Monday 23 May 2022 13:00 , Kate Ng

The Platinum Jubilee Pageant is taking place on the last of the special four-day bank holiday weekend to celebrate the Queen’s historic milestone.

Find out when the event is taking place and which special performers will be there:

When is the Platinum Jubilee Pageant and who is performing?

Queen won’t receive Trooping the Colour salute for first time in 70 years

Monday 23 May 2022 12:00 , Kate Ng

For the first time in her seven-decade reign, the Queen will not take salute during the Trooping the Colour parade.

Historically, the Queen has taken the salute to her personal troops, the Household Division on Horse Guards Parade.

This year, Prince Charles, Prince William and Princess Anne will take the salute instead and will ride on the parade as colonels of the Welsh Guards, the Irish Guards and the Blues and Royals.

Read the full story:

Queen won’t receive Trooping the Colour salute for first time in 70 years

Tube strike threatened for day after Jubilee weekend

Monday 23 May 2022 11:13 , Kate Ng

A tube strike has been proposed for 6 June, the day when most commuters will return to work after the Jubilee bank holiday weekend.

The 24-hour walkout, called by union RMT, could see the capital grind to a halt, affecting 4,000 London Underground staff.

Our Travel Editor Helen Coffey reports:

Tube strike threatened for day after Jubilee weekend

Prince William’s 40th birthday to be marked with his portrait on £5 coin

Monday 23 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

The Duke of Cambridge’s 40th birthday will be celebrated with a £5 coin featuring his portrait, the Royal Mint said.

The UK’s official coin producer has unveiled the coin ahead of William’s milestone birthday on 21 June.

Prince William’s 40th birthday to be marked with his portrait on £5 coin

Charles will make a ‘fine king’, Jennie Bond says

Monday 23 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

Royal correspondent Jennie Bond believes that Prince Charles will make a “fine king”, she said during a recent event hosted by The Independent.

When asked about Charles as King, Bond said: “Knowing Charles a little bit as I have over the years, I’ve always maintained actually, that I think he has the makings of being a very fine King.

“He’s a decent person you know, he made an absolute mess of his first marriage and his private life, of which a lot of us have done that. It took a long, long time for the public to forgive him.”

Our Deputy Lifestyle Editor Laura Hampson reports:

Jennie Bond: ‘Charles will make a fine King’

Chelsea Flower Show to mark platinum jubilee with floral portrait of the Queen

Monday 23 May 2022 08:33 , Kate Ng

The Chelsea Flower Show will return to London this week, with special displays to mark the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

The annual event, which opens to the public on Tuesday 24 May, will include a floral sculptural portrait of the monarch in the official platinum jubilee shade of purple.

My colleague Saman Javed has the details:

Chelsea Flower Show to mark platinum jubilee with floral portrait of the Queen

Monday 23 May 2022 08:32 , Kate Ng

Good morning, and welcome to The Independent’s liveblog following the latest updates on the Queen in the lead-up to the Platinum Jubilee celebrations from 2 to 5 June.

Sunday 22 May 2022 17:30 , Saman Javed

That’s a wrap of our coverage today, join us again tomorrow for more updates on the Queen and the royal family.

Commemorate the Queen’s platinum jubilee with some regal merchandise

Sunday 22 May 2022 17:00 , Saman Javed

Ahead of the platinum jubilee celebrations in June, many among us will be commemorating the occasion with memorabilia and merchandise.

Outside the naff mugs and fridge magnets found in royal tourist shops, there’s a wealth of lovely merch to mark the occasion – from silk scarves and picnic cool bags to fun prints, tea towels and even a Barbie immortalisation.

Here’s our pick of the best bits of memorabilia to shop ahead of the jubilee:

Commemorate the Queen’s platinum jubilee with some regal merchandise

Tiktokers amused by blue and red ‘jubilee fish and chips'

Sunday 22 May 2022 16:00 , Saman Javed

A chip shop in Wales has gone viral on TikTok after posting its take on a special platinum jubilee fish and chips.

Crisp and Fry, a chain of chip shops in Llanelli and Ammanford, created the dish in the colours of the Union Jack flag by adding blue and red food colouring to batter.

But many on the social media platform found the colourful twist on a British classic too much to stomach.

“Immediately no,” one person declared, while another joked: “The police have been informed.”

A third warned the chip shop that “my therapist will hear about this”, and a fourth said: “Thanks, Queen’s crying now.”

Kate Ng has the full story here:

TikTokers horrified and amused by blue and red ‘jubilee fish and chips’

Cookbook containing 70 recipes from around the world marks platinum jubilee

Sunday 22 May 2022 15:00 , Saman Javed

A royal cookbook containing 70 recipes from across the world has been released in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

The Platinum Jubilee Cookbook, released on 28 April, contains recipes from British embassies and high commissions.

It includes how to make Spanish marmalade from Madrid, and green fish curry from the Islamabad High Commission.

Saman Javed has the details:

Cookbook containing 70 recipes to be released for Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Giant slide coming to Tower of London in celebration of platinum jubilee

Sunday 22 May 2022 14:00 , Saman Javed

The Tower of London will be surrounded by a “Superbloom” display of flowers featuring a giant slide in celebration of the Queen’s platinum jubilee this summer.

The Historical Royal Palaces has announced that this spring it will plant 20 million seeds in the Tower of London’s moat, with the aim of creating the appearance of a sea of flowers surrounding the landmark.

To add an element of fun, visitors to the attraction will be able to enter the moat via a large slide which was originally commissioned by the National Trust for use at Cliveden House.

Saman Javed has the full story here:

What is the Queen’s last name?

Sunday 22 May 2022 13:00 , Saman Javed

As the nation prepares to celebrate 70 years of the Queen’s reign, some royal admirers might be surprised to learn that they’re not entirely familiar with our monarch’s full name.

If you’re unsure what the Queen’s last name is, Joanna Whitehead has everything you need to know:

What is the Queen’s last name?

What time will pubs open on the platinum jubilee weekend?

Sunday 22 May 2022 12:00 , Saman Javed

Keen to raise a late-night toast to her majesty over the jubilee weekend? Depending on which part of the UK you’re in, you may well be in luck.

Marking Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 years on the throne, the platinum jubilee celebrations are fast approaching, with Britons looking forward to a four-day weekend at the beginning of June to mark the occasion.

In England and Wales, opening hours for pubs and bars will be extended over the four-day bank holiday weekend. However, in Scotland, only those in Glasgow are being permitted to pour drinks later than usual.

Joanna Whitehead has the full story here:

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

Queen plans to visit Chelsea Flower Show, Buckingham Palace says

Sunday 22 May 2022 11:00 , Saman Javed

The Queen is hoping to make an appearance at the Chelsea Flower Show as the event returns on Tuesday 24 May, Buckingham Palace has said.

It is understood a decision will be taken on the day as to whether the 96-year-old monarch, who has mobility issues, will be able to go.

Among the displays at this year’s show will be The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Garden, which will feature laser-cut steel silhouettes of the monarch, surrounded by 70 planted terracotta pots, representing each year of her reign.

Read more here:

Queen hoping to visit Chelsea Flower Show, Palace says

One in three Britons think the Queen should retire

Sunday 22 May 2022 10:00 , Saman Javed

A third of Britons think that the Queen should retire and let her son, the Prince of Wales, take over after she missed a series of in-person events due to mobility issues.

A new YouGov survey revealed a distinct shift in public opinion about whether the Queen should remain as head of state for the rest of her life.

For the past two years since the polling began, more than half of Britons thought Her Majesty should continue her reign until she dies, while only a quarter thought she should retire.

The new survey, carried out for Times Radio, showed an increase in the number of people who think the monarch should withdraw from the throne (34 per cent), while less than half (49 per cent) think she should continue working.

Kate Ng has the full story here:

One in three Britons think the Queen should retire

Prince Charles and Camilla to feature in EastEnders jubilee special

Sunday 22 May 2022 08:50 , Saman Javed

Royal couple Prince Charles and Camilla will guest star in an episode of EastEnders in honour of the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall are set to feature on a special episode of the long-running soap, surprising the fictional residents of Albert Square at a street party.

The episode will air on 2 June, ahead of the Jubilee holiday weekend.

Louis Chilton has the details:

Prince Charles and Camilla to feature in EastEnders Jubilee special

Sunday 22 May 2022 08:45 , Saman Javed

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

Saturday 21 May 2022 17:30 , Saman Javed

That’s a wrap of our coverage today, join us again tomorrow for more updates on the Queen and the royal family.

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