In Pics: Along with Queen Elizabeth, these are the world's longest reigning monarchs

A 19-year-old man has been arrested for threatening to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II in revenge for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

The accused, identified as Jaswant Singh Chail, was detained on December 25 on the premises of the royal’s Berkshire residence, days after a video went viral on Snapchat showing a man armed with a crossbow and wearing a mask and a black hoodie.

In the video, Chail detailed plans to kill the Queen to avenge the victims of the Amritsar massacre, according to the Sun newspaper.

"I'm sorry. I'm sorry for what I've done and what I will do. I will attempt to assassinate Elizabeth, Queen of the Royal Family," the masked man is seen saying in the video.

"This is revenge for those who have died in the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. It is also revenge for those who have been killed, humiliated and discriminated on because of their race. I'm an Indian Sikh, a Sikh. My name was Jaswant Singh Chail, my name is Darth Jones," he says.

The Metropolitan Police said the arrested has been detained under the UK’s Mental Health Act after a mental health assessment and remains “in the care of medical professionals”.

Meanwhile, his father Jasbir Singh Chail said his son was of unsound mind.

"Something’s gone horribly wrong with our son, and we are trying to figure out what. We’ve not had a chance to speak to him but are trying to get him the help he needs,” the 57-year-old told MailOnline.&nbsp;

“From our perspective, we are going through a difficult time. We are trying to resolve this issue and it’s not easy,” he added.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in Amritsar in 1919 where hundreds of unarmed Indians were killed in an indiscriminate firing by the British colonial troops under the orders of General Reginald Dyer.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 19-year-old man has been arrested for threatening to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II in revenge for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The accused, identified as Jaswant Singh Chail, was detained on December 25 on the premises of the royal’s Berkshire residence, days after a video went viral on Snapchat showing a man armed with a crossbow and wearing a mask and a black hoodie.

A 19-year-old man has been arrested for threatening to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II in revenge for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The accused, identified as Jaswant Singh Chail, was detained on December 25 on the premises of the royal’s Berkshire residence, days after a video went viral on Snapchat showing a man armed with a crossbow and wearing a mask and a black hoodie. In the video, Chail detailed plans to kill the Queen to avenge the victims of the Amritsar massacre, according to the Sun newspaper. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry for what I've done and what I will do. I will attempt to assassinate Elizabeth, Queen of the Royal Family," the masked man is seen saying in the video. "This is revenge for those who have died in the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. It is also revenge for those who have been killed, humiliated and discriminated on because of their race. I'm an Indian Sikh, a Sikh. My name was Jaswant Singh Chail, my name is Darth Jones," he says. The Metropolitan Police said the arrested has been detained under the UK’s Mental Health Act after a mental health assessment and remains “in the care of medical professionals”. Meanwhile, his father Jasbir Singh Chail said his son was of unsound mind. "Something’s gone horribly wrong with our son, and we are trying to figure out what. We’ve not had a chance to speak to him but are trying to get him the help he needs,” the 57-year-old told MailOnline. “From our perspective, we are going through a difficult time. We are trying to resolve this issue and it’s not easy,” he added. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in Amritsar in 1919 where hundreds of unarmed Indians were killed in an indiscriminate firing by the British colonial troops under the orders of General Reginald Dyer. (With inputs from agencies)

UK: Sikh youth threatens to ‘assassinate’ Queen to avenge Jallianwala Bagh massacre, arrested

Barbados: Journey from being a British colony to a Republic

The Caribbean island nation of Barbados severed its centuries-old ties to the British monarchy by displacing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state and declaring itself the world's newest republic.

Dame Sandra Mason was inaugurated as the first president at midnight (0400 GMT/0930 IST) with the Royal Standard flag representing the queen lowered in the capital Bridgetown.

Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, stood somberly as Queen Elizabeth's royal standard was lowered and the new&nbsp;Barbados&nbsp;declared, a step which republicans hope will spur discussion of similar proposals in other former British colonies that have Queen Elizabeth as their sovereign.

After a dazzling performance of Barbadian dance and music, which included speeches celebrating the end of colonialism, Barbadian singer Rihanna was named a national hero by Prime Minister Mia Mottley, leader of Barbados' republican movement.

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In Barbados, the removal of Elizabeth II, who is still the queen of 15 other realms, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and Jamaica, is seen as a way to finally break free of the demons of its colonial past.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Barbados about to become the world's newest republic

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The country will remain a member of the Commonwealth, a grouping of 54 nations across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe. The&nbsp;new era has sparked debate over colonialism, Britain's centuries of influence and more than 200 years of slavery until 1834.

"I remember in the old days we would be really excited about the Queen and Prince Charles and Princess Diana and royal weddings," says Anastasia Smith, a 61-year-old nurse.

"But I don't know if we ever quite saw them as our royal family. Now, everybody is talking about a republic. I'm not sure that anything about my life is going to change. But I think we're doing the right thing and it's a proud moment for Barbados."

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Many Barbadians disagree that replacing the queen is the most pressing issue, citing the economic turmoil caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, which has exposed the country's overreliance on tourism -- which is, ironically, dependent on British tourists.

"I know it is something that we were going towards for a very long time, but I think it came at a time which is not necessarily the best time considering our economic situation and the Covid situation," said 27-year-old office manager Nikita Stuart.

The eerie calm in usually bustling Bridgetown, the lack of tourists at popular attractions, and the dead nightlife scene all point to a country struggling after years of relative prosperity.

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The unemployment rate has jumped to nearly 16 per cent from nine per cent recently, and the country has just eased a longstanding curfew imposed by COVID-19, shifting it from 9:00 pm to midnight.

Some see the end of the queen's reign as a necessary step towards financial reparations for the historical consequences of the use of slaves brought from Africa for work on sugar plantations.

In many Barbadians' eyes, replacing the British monarch is merely a matter of catching up with how the nation has felt for decades.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Caribbean island nation of Barbados severed its centuries-old ties to the British monarchy by displacing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state and declaring itself the world's newest republic.

The Caribbean island nation of Barbados severed its centuries-old ties to the British monarchy by displacing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state and declaring itself the world's newest republic. Dame Sandra Mason was inaugurated as the first president at midnight (0400 GMT/0930 IST) with the Royal Standard flag representing the queen lowered in the capital Bridgetown. Prince Charles, heir to the British throne, stood somberly as Queen Elizabeth's royal standard was lowered and the new Barbados declared, a step which republicans hope will spur discussion of similar proposals in other former British colonies that have Queen Elizabeth as their sovereign. After a dazzling performance of Barbadian dance and music, which included speeches celebrating the end of colonialism, Barbadian singer Rihanna was named a national hero by Prime Minister Mia Mottley, leader of Barbados' republican movement. In Barbados, the removal of Elizabeth II, who is still the queen of 15 other realms, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and Jamaica, is seen as a way to finally break free of the demons of its colonial past. Watch | Barbados about to become the world's newest republic The country will remain a member of the Commonwealth, a grouping of 54 nations across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe. The new era has sparked debate over colonialism, Britain's centuries of influence and more than 200 years of slavery until 1834. "I remember in the old days we would be really excited about the Queen and Prince Charles and Princess Diana and royal weddings," says Anastasia Smith, a 61-year-old nurse. "But I don't know if we ever quite saw them as our royal family. Now, everybody is talking about a republic. I'm not sure that anything about my life is going to change. But I think we're doing the right thing and it's a proud moment for Barbados." Many Barbadians disagree that replacing the queen is the most pressing issue, citing the economic turmoil caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, which has exposed the country's overreliance on tourism -- which is, ironically, dependent on British tourists. "I know it is something that we were going towards for a very long time, but I think it came at a time which is not necessarily the best time considering our economic situation and the Covid situation," said 27-year-old office manager Nikita Stuart. The eerie calm in usually bustling Bridgetown, the lack of tourists at popular attractions, and the dead nightlife scene all point to a country struggling after years of relative prosperity. Also read | Barbados establishes world's first metaverse embassy The unemployment rate has jumped to nearly 16 per cent from nine per cent recently, and the country has just eased a longstanding curfew imposed by COVID-19, shifting it from 9:00 pm to midnight. Some see the end of the queen's reign as a necessary step towards financial reparations for the historical consequences of the use of slaves brought from Africa for work on sugar plantations. In many Barbadians' eyes, replacing the British monarch is merely a matter of catching up with how the nation has felt for decades. (With inputs from agencies)

A new republic is born: Barbados ditches Britain's Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth II is reportedly keen to join the baptism of her great-grandchildren on Sunday although she is not keeping well, state reports.&nbsp;

 
According to news releases, she is “keen to attend such a wonderful event” for Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall’s respective sons, August and Lucas, at the Royal Chapel of All Saints in Berkshire, a source told The Sun.

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“She knows how important this is for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren,” the source reportedly shared.&nbsp;

 
“It’s set to be a heartwarming family occasion and a time of real celebration after what has been some challenging times for certain royals of late, including the Queen herself," added the source.

&nbsp; 
This combined baptism for 9-month-old August and 8-month-old Lucas is believed to be a first in the royal family.

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This event is set to take place one day after what would have been the Queen’s 74th wedding anniversary with deceased husband, Prince Philip. He passed away this year in April at the age of 99.&nbsp;

 
Both August and Lucas were got their middle name Philip from their late great-grandfather.

 
Eugenie’s father Prince Andrew and mother Sarah Ferguson are expected to attend the baptism.

Media reports also claim cousin Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton will also be there, too.&nbsp;

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If the Queen makes it to her great-grandsons' baptism event then it would be her first public appearance since her hospitalization on October 20.

Queen Elizabeth II is reportedly keen to join the baptism of her great-grandchildren on Sunday although she is not keeping well, state reports. According to news releases, she is “keen to attend such a wonderful event” for Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall’s respective sons, August and Lucas, at the Royal Chapel of All Saints in Berkshire, a source told The Sun.

Queen Elizabeth II is reportedly keen to join the baptism of her great-grandchildren on Sunday although she is not keeping well, state reports. According to news releases, she is “keen to attend such a wonderful event” for Princess Eugenie and Zara Tindall’s respective sons, August and Lucas, at the Royal Chapel of All Saints in Berkshire, a source told The Sun. Also read: Ilaiyaraaja, Indian musical maestro, makes his Times Square billboard debut “She knows how important this is for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren,” the source reportedly shared. “It’s set to be a heartwarming family occasion and a time of real celebration after what has been some challenging times for certain royals of late, including the Queen herself," added the source. This combined baptism for 9-month-old August and 8-month-old Lucas is believed to be a first in the royal family. Also read: Will Ryan, voice actor of 'Winne The Pooh' and 'G.I. Joe', dead at 72 This event is set to take place one day after what would have been the Queen’s 74th wedding anniversary with deceased husband, Prince Philip. He passed away this year in April at the age of 99. Both August and Lucas were got their middle name Philip from their late great-grandfather. Eugenie’s father Prince Andrew and mother Sarah Ferguson are expected to attend the baptism. Media reports also claim cousin Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton will also be there, too. Also read: Celebrate World Television Day with these multi-genre Zee Theatre teleplays If the Queen makes it to her great-grandsons' baptism event then it would be her first public appearance since her hospitalization on October 20.

Queen wants to attend great-grandsons August and Lucas' baptism: Reports

A rare doll&nbsp;which was based on Queen Elizabeth II when she was three years old&nbsp;will be auctioned soon.

The ‘Princess Elizabeth’ doll, as it is called, will be sold as part of a collection of about 500 dolls—all made by German makers Schoenau &amp; Hoffmeister.

According to reports, the doll never went into mass production as the Queen’s mother thought that the toy made her daughter look “too chubby.” &nbsp;

The blonde-haired and blue-eyed toy was made in 1929. Only very few of the prototypes reportedly exist today.

All the collection of dolls belonged to Betty Fox from Nottinghamshire, who died in 2019 aged 95.

Daniel Agnew, from Special Auction Services, told the BBC that the whole doll collection is worth between £40,000 ( US $45,000 approx) and £60,000 (US $67,000 approx) , while the Princess Elizabeth toy has been valued at £500 to £800.

Agnew said that the doll did not receive royal approval&nbsp;and it was not a big seller at that time.&nbsp;

Speaking about Betty Fox, Agnew said, “She bought all sorts of oddities and made them&nbsp;lovely clothes. She was a farmer's wife with four sons. She had a full life and this was her time - she would take herself off and make clothes and buy dolls."

He said the dolls were “all over” the farmhouse.

&nbsp;Agnew added that Fox’s sons told him that in the 1960s she would put advertisements in the local paper asking people for dolls, which she would pay £5 for.

The collection will be sold as part of a three-day online auction from Monday to Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

A rare doll which was based on Queen Elizabeth II when she was three years old will be auctioned soon. The ‘Princess Elizabeth’ doll, as it is called, will be sold as part of a collection of about 500 dolls—all made by German makers Schoenau & Hoffmeister.

A rare doll which was based on Queen Elizabeth II when she was three years old will be auctioned soon. The ‘Princess Elizabeth’ doll, as it is called, will be sold as part of a collection of about 500 dolls—all made by German makers Schoenau & Hoffmeister. According to reports, the doll never went into mass production as the Queen’s mother thought that the toy made her daughter look “too chubby.” The blonde-haired and blue-eyed toy was made in 1929. Only very few of the prototypes reportedly exist today. All the collection of dolls belonged to Betty Fox from Nottinghamshire, who died in 2019 aged 95. Daniel Agnew, from Special Auction Services, told the BBC that the whole doll collection is worth between £40,000 ( US $45,000 approx) and £60,000 (US $67,000 approx) , while the Princess Elizabeth toy has been valued at £500 to £800. Agnew said that the doll did not receive royal approval and it was not a big seller at that time. Speaking about Betty Fox, Agnew said, “She bought all sorts of oddities and made them lovely clothes. She was a farmer's wife with four sons. She had a full life and this was her time - she would take herself off and make clothes and buy dolls." He said the dolls were “all over” the farmhouse. Agnew added that Fox’s sons told him that in the 1960s she would put advertisements in the local paper asking people for dolls, which she would pay £5 for. The collection will be sold as part of a three-day online auction from Monday to Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Princess Elizabeth doll which angered Royal family to be auctioned

Barbados has elected its first-ever president, a key step to becoming a republic and removing &nbsp;Britain's Queen Elizabeth II&nbsp; as the head of state.

72-year-old Dame Sandra Mason is set to be sworn in on November 30, which will mark the country's 55th anniversary of independence from Britain.

The historic election came after a joint session of the House of Assembly and the Senate on Wednesday. Prime Minister Mia Mottley described the vote as a “seminal moment” for the nation.

The first woman to serve on the Barbados Court of Appeals, Sandra has been governor-general since 2018.

In September 2020, the government announced the plan to move to a republic status.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/barbados-says-it-will-remove-queen-elizabeth-as-head-of-state-327964">&nbsp;Barbados says it will remove Queen Elizabeth as head of state</a>

It had said that “the time (had) come” for Barbados to “fully leave our colonial past behind”. The change had already been recommended by a constitutional review in 1998.

Barbados —which has a population of just under 300,000 —was claimed by the British in 1625. It has sometimes been referred to as “Little England” for its loyalty to British customs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/barbados-announces-presidential-nominee-cuts-ties-with-british-monarchy-what-does-it-mean-411095">Barbados announces presidential nominee, cuts ties with British monarchy. What does it mean?</a>

It is relatively prosperous, and a popular tourist destination: prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, more than a million tourists visited its idyllic beaches and crystalline waters each year.

Once heavily dependent on sugar exports, its economy has diversified into tourism and finance.

Notably, Barbados is not the first former British colony in the Caribbean to become a republic.

In 1970, less than four years after gaining independence from Britain, Guyana announced itself as a republic state. Trinidad and Tobago followed suit in 1976 and Dominica in 1978.

Jamaica has in the past suggested that it might also consider the change.

(With inputs from agencies)

Barbados has elected its first-ever president, a key step to becoming a republic and removing Britain's Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state. 72-year-old Dame Sandra Mason is set to be sworn in on November 30, which will mark the country's 55th anniversary of independence from Britain.

Barbados has elected its first-ever president, a key step to becoming a republic and removing Britain's Queen Elizabeth II as the head of state. 72-year-old Dame Sandra Mason is set to be sworn in on November 30, which will mark the country's 55th anniversary of independence from Britain. The historic election came after a joint session of the House of Assembly and the Senate on Wednesday. Prime Minister Mia Mottley described the vote as a “seminal moment” for the nation. The first woman to serve on the Barbados Court of Appeals, Sandra has been governor-general since 2018. In September 2020, the government announced the plan to move to a republic status. Also read | Barbados says it will remove Queen Elizabeth as head of state It had said that “the time (had) come” for Barbados to “fully leave our colonial past behind”. The change had already been recommended by a constitutional review in 1998. Barbados —which has a population of just under 300,000 —was claimed by the British in 1625. It has sometimes been referred to as “Little England” for its loyalty to British customs. Also read | Barbados announces presidential nominee, cuts ties with British monarchy. What does it mean? It is relatively prosperous, and a popular tourist destination: prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, more than a million tourists visited its idyllic beaches and crystalline waters each year. Once heavily dependent on sugar exports, its economy has diversified into tourism and finance. Notably, Barbados is not the first former British colony in the Caribbean to become a republic. In 1970, less than four years after gaining independence from Britain, Guyana announced itself as a republic state. Trinidad and Tobago followed suit in 1976 and Dominica in 1978. Jamaica has in the past suggested that it might also consider the change. (With inputs from agencies)

Barbados elects its first president, all set to remove Britain's Queen as head of state

Queen Elizabeth II has been advised to rest and take care of her health by her medical experts, the palace confirmed. <o:p></o:p>

Reports of the Queen not keeping well started surfacing after it was confirmed that she had cancelled her planned trip to Northern Ireland. Reacting to those reports, the palace confirmed that the Queen had to cancel the trip as she has been ‘advised to rest’.<o:p></o:p>

"The Queen sends her warmest good wishes to the people of Northern Ireland, and looks forward to visiting in the future," the statement read.

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She was expected to attend the church service which has been organised to mark the 100th anniversary of the creation of Northern Ireland. After her doctors’ advise, the 94-year-old monarch&nbsp;"has reluctantly accepted medical advice to rest for the next few days".<o:p></o:p>

However, the officials have also confirmed that the Queen has not contracted coronavirus, contrary to some of local media reports. The Queen has also been fully vaccinated, which gives her immunity from the virus.<o:p></o:p>

The Queen is currently resting at Windsor Castle, located in west of London. She is "in good spirits and is disappointed that she will no longer be able to visit Northern Ireland, where she had been due to undertake a series of engagements" on Thursday and Friday.

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<o:p></o:p>

This has come a few days after it was reported that the Queen has been advised to let go of her daily glass of martini, and cut back on her alcohol intake.<o:p></o:p>

"Doctors have advised the Queen to forgo alcohol except for special occasions to ensure she is as healthy as possible for her busy autumn schedule and ahead of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations next June," sources told Vanity Fair.<o:p></o:p>

Some people had also been raising eyebrows on Queen using a walking stick for some time now.<o:p></o:p>

Queen Elizabeth II has been advised to rest and take care of her health by her medical experts, the palace confirmed. Reports of the Queen not keeping well started surfacing after it was confirmed that she had cancelled her planned trip to Northern Ireland.

Queen Elizabeth II has been advised to rest and take care of her health by her medical experts, the palace confirmed. Reports of the Queen not keeping well started surfacing after it was confirmed that she had cancelled her planned trip to Northern Ireland. Reacting to those reports, the palace confirmed that the Queen had to cancel the trip as she has been ‘advised to rest’. "The Queen sends her warmest good wishes to the people of Northern Ireland, and looks forward to visiting in the future," the statement read. Also read | No more martini: Queen Elizabeth advised to cut down daily alcohol consumption She was expected to attend the church service which has been organised to mark the 100th anniversary of the creation of Northern Ireland. After her doctors’ advise, the 94-year-old monarch "has reluctantly accepted medical advice to rest for the next few days". However, the officials have also confirmed that the Queen has not contracted coronavirus, contrary to some of local media reports. The Queen has also been fully vaccinated, which gives her immunity from the virus. The Queen is currently resting at Windsor Castle, located in west of London. She is "in good spirits and is disappointed that she will no longer be able to visit Northern Ireland, where she had been due to undertake a series of engagements" on Thursday and Friday. Also read | 'Deeply disturbing' leak of Queen's funeral plans irks Buckingham Palace This has come a few days after it was reported that the Queen has been advised to let go of her daily glass of martini, and cut back on her alcohol intake. "Doctors have advised the Queen to forgo alcohol except for special occasions to ensure she is as healthy as possible for her busy autumn schedule and ahead of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations next June," sources told Vanity Fair. Some people had also been raising eyebrows on Queen using a walking stick for some time now.

Queen Elizabeth cancels Northern Ireland tour as she is 'advised to rest' by doctors

Queen Elizabeth II is Britain's longest-lived and longest-reigning monarch. But don't call her an oldie. 
 
The 95-year-old queen has politely declined the honour of being named 'Oldie of the Year' by a British magazine, saying she does not meet 'the relevant criteria.' The Oldie magazine on Tuesday published the queen's response to its suggestion that she follows in the footsteps of former recipients, including former Prime Minister John Major, actor Olivia de Havilland and artist David Hockney. 
 
"Her Majesty believes you are as old as you feel, as such The Queen does not believe she meets the relevant criteria to be able to accept and hopes you will find a more worthy recipient," said a letter from her assistant private secretary, Tom Laing-Baker. He ended the letter "with Her Majesty's warmest best wishes." The queen, who was widowed this year, still keeps a busy schedule of royal duties. On Tuesday she held audiences with diplomats and hosted a reception at Windsor Castle for global business leaders.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-more-martini-queen-elizabeth-advised-to-cut-down-daily-alcohol-consumption-421737">No more martini: Queen Elizabeth advised to cut down daily alcohol consumption</a> 
 
The Oldie of the Year prize honours people of advanced age who have made a special contribution to public life. The queen's husband Prince Philip, who died in April, received the accolade in 2011 when he was 90. 
 
After the queen declined, this year's Oldie of the Year award went to movie royalty instead: French-American actress and dancer Leslie Caron, 90.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-insists-on-cutting-a-cake-with-sword-391150">Queen Elizabeth insists on cutting a cake with sword</a>

Queen Elizabeth II is Britain's longest-lived and longest-reigning monarch. But don't call her an oldie. The 95-year-old queen has politely declined the honour of being named 'Oldie of the Year' by a British magazine, saying she does not meet 'the relevant criteria.

Queen Elizabeth II is Britain's longest-lived and longest-reigning monarch. But don't call her an oldie. The 95-year-old queen has politely declined the honour of being named 'Oldie of the Year' by a British magazine, saying she does not meet 'the relevant criteria.' The Oldie magazine on Tuesday published the queen's response to its suggestion that she follows in the footsteps of former recipients, including former Prime Minister John Major, actor Olivia de Havilland and artist David Hockney. "Her Majesty believes you are as old as you feel, as such The Queen does not believe she meets the relevant criteria to be able to accept and hopes you will find a more worthy recipient," said a letter from her assistant private secretary, Tom Laing-Baker. He ended the letter "with Her Majesty's warmest best wishes." The queen, who was widowed this year, still keeps a busy schedule of royal duties. On Tuesday she held audiences with diplomats and hosted a reception at Windsor Castle for global business leaders. No more martini: Queen Elizabeth advised to cut down daily alcohol consumption The Oldie of the Year prize honours people of advanced age who have made a special contribution to public life. The queen's husband Prince Philip, who died in April, received the accolade in 2011 when he was 90. After the queen declined, this year's Oldie of the Year award went to movie royalty instead: French-American actress and dancer Leslie Caron, 90. Queen Elizabeth insists on cutting a cake with sword

Thanks but no: UK queen turns down 'Oldie of the Year' title

Queen Elizabeth II flagged off the Commonwealth Games 2022 Baton Relay wearing a diamond brooch gifted to her by the Nizam of Hyderabad in 1947 in celebration of her wedding.

The 95-year-old monarch was joined by her youngest son, Prince Edward, at Buckingham Palace on Thursday for the traditional ceremony dressed in a bright orange outfit adorned with the large rose brooch.

It originally belonged in a tiara, which was a gift from Asaf Jah VII, among the world's richest men at the time of her wedding to Prince Philip.

He famously told Cartier jewellers to let the Queen, then Princess Elizabeth, select anything from their collection as a wedding gift from him.

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Her choice of the brooch for the Commonwealth ceremony is also seen as a tribute to her late husband Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, who passed away in April this year.

Her launch of the Baton Relay marked her first major in-person event at Buckingham Palace since the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

"The Baton's epic journey will conclude at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony in July 2022, where Her Majesty will take the message from the baton and read it aloud," Buckingham Palace said.

The message within the baton is kept secret until that moment. The hi-tech equipment has been dubbed a "smart baton", with a 360-degree camera, a monitor that displays the heartbeats of bearers, LED lighting and GPS tracking and atmospheric sensors that use laser technology to analyse the environmental conditions.

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Its international route, which includes India, will span 269 days, spending between two and four days in each nation or territory, covering approximately 90,000 miles (140,000 kilometres), with over 7,500 Batonbearers given the opportunity to carry the Baton in their community.

The Birmingham 2022 Queen's Baton Relay will visit 72 nations and territories that fall within the Commonwealth but will travel almost half the distance than the previous Gold Coast Queen's Baton Relay in a bid to reduce the carbon footprint.

Flying out from Birmingham Airport, the first stop on the Relay is Cyprus on Saturday, shortly followed by Malta on October 9. 
Arriving in Africa on October 16, the Baton will take in all 19 Commonwealth countries on the continent, as well as a stop on the volcanic island of Saint Helena.

After three days in Pakistan, the Baton will spend New Year's Day in the Maldives, before visiting Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and spending four days in India between 12-15 January 2022.

Queen Elizabeth II flagged off the Commonwealth Games 2022 Baton Relay wearing a diamond brooch gifted to her by the Nizam of Hyderabad in 1947 in celebration of her wedding.

Queen Elizabeth II flagged off the Commonwealth Games 2022 Baton Relay wearing a diamond brooch gifted to her by the Nizam of Hyderabad in 1947 in celebration of her wedding. The 95-year-old monarch was joined by her youngest son, Prince Edward, at Buckingham Palace on Thursday for the traditional ceremony dressed in a bright orange outfit adorned with the large rose brooch. It originally belonged in a tiara, which was a gift from Asaf Jah VII, among the world's richest men at the time of her wedding to Prince Philip. He famously told Cartier jewellers to let the Queen, then Princess Elizabeth, select anything from their collection as a wedding gift from him. ALSO READ | Wasim Jaffer hilariously trolls Rohit Sharma-led MI who face improbable task for playoffs spot Her choice of the brooch for the Commonwealth ceremony is also seen as a tribute to her late husband Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, who passed away in April this year. Her launch of the Baton Relay marked her first major in-person event at Buckingham Palace since the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. "The Baton's epic journey will conclude at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony in July 2022, where Her Majesty will take the message from the baton and read it aloud," Buckingham Palace said. The message within the baton is kept secret until that moment. The hi-tech equipment has been dubbed a "smart baton", with a 360-degree camera, a monitor that displays the heartbeats of bearers, LED lighting and GPS tracking and atmospheric sensors that use laser technology to analyse the environmental conditions. ALSO READ | IPL 2021: How MS Dhoni prompted Deepak Chahar to prepone his proposal plan for his beloved Jaya Bhardwaj Its international route, which includes India, will span 269 days, spending between two and four days in each nation or territory, covering approximately 90,000 miles (140,000 kilometres), with over 7,500 Batonbearers given the opportunity to carry the Baton in their community. The Birmingham 2022 Queen's Baton Relay will visit 72 nations and territories that fall within the Commonwealth but will travel almost half the distance than the previous Gold Coast Queen's Baton Relay in a bid to reduce the carbon footprint. Flying out from Birmingham Airport, the first stop on the Relay is Cyprus on Saturday, shortly followed by Malta on October 9. Arriving in Africa on October 16, the Baton will take in all 19 Commonwealth countries on the continent, as well as a stop on the volcanic island of Saint Helena. After three days in Pakistan, the Baton will spend New Year's Day in the Maldives, before visiting Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and spending four days in India between 12-15 January 2022.

Commonwealth Games 2022: Queen Elizabeth II flags off Baton Relay wearing Nizam brooch

Reigniting the debate over the British royal family and race, newly discovered documents, tell how until at least the 1960’s “coloured immigrants or foreigners” were banned from serving in clerical roles in the royal household.

Another major revelation done by these documents shed light on how controversial clauses are negotiated by Buckingham palace. Some of these controversial clauses remain to date, like the one exempting the Queen and her household out of the purview of laws that prevent race and sex discrimination.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/royal-mess-all-the-controversies-that-british-monarchy-has-faced-till-date-274729">Explained: Royal mess - all the controversies that British Monarchy has faced till date</a>

These papers discovered at the National Archives as part of an ongoing investigation by the Guardian.

The papers reveal how in 1968, the then Queen’s chief financial manager informed civil servants that, although they were permitted to work as domestic servants “it was not, in fact, the practice to appoint coloured immigrants or foreigners” to clerical roles in the royal household.

It is still unclear when the practice ended, as Buckingham Palace has refused to answer questions about the ban and when it was revoked. Instead, Buckingham palace claims that before the 1990s they didn’t keep records of their employees’ racial backgrounds. Palace records from the 1990s show that people from ethnic minority backgrounds were employed at the palace in that decade.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-meghan-and-harrys-interviewdepth-of-pain-from-royal-life-spills-into-view-368858">Meghan and Harry's interview:&nbsp;Depth of pain from royal life spills into view</a>

Special Exemptions

While laws seeking to make illegal any discrimination on the grounds of race or ethnicity while hiring an employee, were sought to be introduced by government ministers in the 1960s, the queen has remained personally exempted from the equality laws for more than four decades.

An exemption that has made it impossible for royal household employees that are women or people from ethnic minorities to complain to the courts if they believe they have been discriminated against.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-harry-finally-takes-on-white-privilege-his-own-369166">Prince Harry finally takes on white privilege: His own</a>

Buckingham Palace in a statement chose not to dispute the Queen’s exemption from the laws but rather added that it had a separate process for hearing complaints related to discrimination. &nbsp;The palace however did not specify what this process consists of.

The newly discovered documents are likely to refocus attention on the royal family’s historical and current relationship with race, especially given what Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, the family’s first mixed-race member had to say in regard to her own ethnicity and those of her children.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-meghan-markles-father-dismisses-her-racist-allegation-against-the-royal-family-the-wholething-about-colouris-bullst-369151">Meghan Markle's father dismisses her racist allegation against the royal family: The whole&nbsp;thing about colour&nbsp;is bulls**t</a>

The exemption was brought into force in the 1970s when a series of racial and sexual equality laws to eradicate discrimination were implemented. A revelation that the documents make is regarding how government officials had to coordinate with Queen Elizabeth Windsor’s advisers on the wording of the laws.

Much of the royal family’s history is inextricably linked with the British empire and its subjugation of people all around the world. Some members of the royal family have also been criticised for their racist comments.

Queen’s consent

Some of the uncovered documents are concerned with the use of Queen’s consent, an obscure parliamentary mechanism using which the British monarch grants parliament permission to debate laws that affect her.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-the-actual-cost-of-sustaining-europes-royal-families-286998">What is the actual cost of sustaining Europe's royal families?</a>&nbsp;

While the documents&nbsp;shed light on the monarch’s manipulation of the parliamentary proceedings, Buckingham Palace says the process is a mere formality. This denial is in spite of compelling evidence that the Queen has repeatedly used this power&nbsp;to secretly lobby ministers to amend legislation that was not to her liking.

The documents reveal how this Queen’s consent procedure was used covertly to influence the formation of the draft race relations legislation.

In 1968, Callaghan wanted to expand the UK’s racial discrimination laws from the mere prohibition of discrimination in public places to encompassing racism in employment or services like housing. But the then home secretary, James Callaghan, and other civil servants appear to be under the impression that until the Queen’s advisers are sufficiently satisfied that the race relations bill cannot be used against her in court, they should not request Queen’s consent for parliament to debate the bill.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-william-kate-middleton-not-happy-with-prince-harry-and-meghan-markles-oprah-interview-366390">Prince William, Kate Middleton not happy with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Oprah interview</a>

As a result of the exemption given to the Queen, the Race Relations Board that was given the task of investigating racial discrimination had to send any complaints from the Queen’s staff to the home secretary rather than the courts.

In the 1970s, three laws were brought in to counter racial and sexual discrimination in the workplace. While complainants, in general, were empowered to take their cases directly to the courts, staff in the royal household were specifically prevented from doing so. The wording of the ban was just vague enough to make sure that the public may not have even realised that their monarch’s staff has been exempted.&nbsp;

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “The royal household and the sovereign comply with the provisions of the Equality Act, in principle and in practice. This is reflected in the diversity, inclusion and dignity at work policies, procedures and practices within the royal household.

Reigniting the debate over the British royal family and race, newly discovered documents, tell how until at least the 1960’s “coloured immigrants or foreigners” were banned from serving in clerical roles in the royal household.

Reigniting the debate over the British royal family and race, newly discovered documents, tell how until at least the 1960’s “coloured immigrants or foreigners” were banned from serving in clerical roles in the royal household. Another major revelation done by these documents shed light on how controversial clauses are negotiated by Buckingham palace. Some of these controversial clauses remain to date, like the one exempting the Queen and her household out of the purview of laws that prevent race and sex discrimination. Also Read | Explained: Royal mess - all the controversies that British Monarchy has faced till date These papers discovered at the National Archives as part of an ongoing investigation by the Guardian. The papers reveal how in 1968, the then Queen’s chief financial manager informed civil servants that, although they were permitted to work as domestic servants “it was not, in fact, the practice to appoint coloured immigrants or foreigners” to clerical roles in the royal household. It is still unclear when the practice ended, as Buckingham Palace has refused to answer questions about the ban and when it was revoked. Instead, Buckingham palace claims that before the 1990s they didn’t keep records of their employees’ racial backgrounds. Palace records from the 1990s show that people from ethnic minority backgrounds were employed at the palace in that decade. Also Read | Meghan and Harry's interview: Depth of pain from royal life spills into view Special Exemptions While laws seeking to make illegal any discrimination on the grounds of race or ethnicity while hiring an employee, were sought to be introduced by government ministers in the 1960s, the queen has remained personally exempted from the equality laws for more than four decades. An exemption that has made it impossible for royal household employees that are women or people from ethnic minorities to complain to the courts if they believe they have been discriminated against. Also Read | Prince Harry finally takes on white privilege: His own Buckingham Palace in a statement chose not to dispute the Queen’s exemption from the laws but rather added that it had a separate process for hearing complaints related to discrimination. The palace however did not specify what this process consists of. The newly discovered documents are likely to refocus attention on the royal family’s historical and current relationship with race, especially given what Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, the family’s first mixed-race member had to say in regard to her own ethnicity and those of her children. Also Read | Meghan Markle's father dismisses her racist allegation against the royal family: The whole thing about colour is bulls**t The exemption was brought into force in the 1970s when a series of racial and sexual equality laws to eradicate discrimination were implemented. A revelation that the documents make is regarding how government officials had to coordinate with Queen Elizabeth Windsor’s advisers on the wording of the laws. Much of the royal family’s history is inextricably linked with the British empire and its subjugation of people all around the world. Some members of the royal family have also been criticised for their racist comments. Queen’s consent Some of the uncovered documents are concerned with the use of Queen’s consent, an obscure parliamentary mechanism using which the British monarch grants parliament permission to debate laws that affect her. Also Read | What is the actual cost of sustaining Europe's royal families? While the documents shed light on the monarch’s manipulation of the parliamentary proceedings, Buckingham Palace says the process is a mere formality. This denial is in spite of compelling evidence that the Queen has repeatedly used this power to secretly lobby ministers to amend legislation that was not to her liking. The documents reveal how this Queen’s consent procedure was used covertly to influence the formation of the draft race relations legislation. In 1968, Callaghan wanted to expand the UK’s racial discrimination laws from the mere prohibition of discrimination in public places to encompassing racism in employment or services like housing. But the then home secretary, James Callaghan, and other civil servants appear to be under the impression that until the Queen’s advisers are sufficiently satisfied that the race relations bill cannot be used against her in court, they should not request Queen’s consent for parliament to debate the bill. Also Read | Prince William, Kate Middleton not happy with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Oprah interview As a result of the exemption given to the Queen, the Race Relations Board that was given the task of investigating racial discrimination had to send any complaints from the Queen’s staff to the home secretary rather than the courts. In the 1970s, three laws were brought in to counter racial and sexual discrimination in the workplace. While complainants, in general, were empowered to take their cases directly to the courts, staff in the royal household were specifically prevented from doing so. The wording of the ban was just vague enough to make sure that the public may not have even realised that their monarch’s staff has been exempted. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: “The royal household and the sovereign comply with the provisions of the Equality Act, in principle and in practice. This is reflected in the diversity, inclusion and dignity at work policies, procedures and practices within the royal household.

Newly discovered document sheds light on racist practices at Buckingham Palace

Queen Elizabeth II is soon going to be welcoming her 12th great grandchild. The Buckingham Palace has announced that Princess Beatrice is expecting her first child with husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. The Princess is due in autumn this year.&nbsp; 
 
The statement said, "Both families are delighted with the news," Beatrice, the elder daughter of Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, married property developer Mapello Mozzi in July 2020, at a small ceremony constrained by coronavirus restrictions. She is ninth in line to the British throne. 
 
Beatrice's younger sister Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank welcomed their first child, a son named August, in February. 
The queen has 10 great-grandchildren, with another second child for Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of York due in the summer.&nbsp;

Queen Elizabeth II is soon going to be welcoming her 12th great grandchild. The Buckingham Palace has announced that Princess Beatrice is expecting her first child with husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi.

Queen Elizabeth II is soon going to be welcoming her 12th great grandchild. The Buckingham Palace has announced that Princess Beatrice is expecting her first child with husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi. The Princess is due in autumn this year. The statement said, "Both families are delighted with the news," Beatrice, the elder daughter of Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, married property developer Mapello Mozzi in July 2020, at a small ceremony constrained by coronavirus restrictions. She is ninth in line to the British throne. Beatrice's younger sister Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank welcomed their first child, a son named August, in February. The queen has 10 great-grandchildren, with another second child for Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of York due in the summer.

UK royals: Queen's granddaughter Princess Beatrice expecting her first child 

Prince Harry- the Duke of Sussex- did not stay back for his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II's 95th birthday on Wednesday. Harry flew back to California shortly after Prince Philip's funeral which was held on Saturday.&nbsp;

According to reports, the 36-year-old flew into Los Angeles on an American Airlines flight that arrived Tuesday afternoon, and was driven to his home in Montecito, California. Harry joined back his wife Meghan Markle and son Archie, who did not attend the funeral owing to Meghan's pregnancy.&nbsp;

The Duke gave his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth's 95th birthday a miss which was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-queen-elizabeth-ii-thanks-public-for-support-and-kindness-on-95th-birthday-379068">celebrated in a small- scale at Windsor.</a> The QUeen chose to not celebrate it in a grand way owing to her husband Prince Philip's death on April 9 and due to the ongoing pandemic.&nbsp;

Harry will undergo a 10-day quarantine recommended for international travellers by the CDC.

The trip to England was Harry`s first return to his native land in more than a year. Harry had received an icy reception and was ignored by senior royals including his father, heir to the throne Prince Charles.

The royal repercussions came after Harry told Oprah that he feels trapped by his family, some members of which he accused of being biased against his biracial wife and son, Archie.&nbsp;

Prince Harry- the Duke of Sussex- did not stay back for his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II's 95th birthday on Wednesday. Harry flew back to California shortly after Prince Philip's funeral which was held on Saturday.

Prince Harry- the Duke of Sussex- did not stay back for his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II's 95th birthday on Wednesday. Harry flew back to California shortly after Prince Philip's funeral which was held on Saturday. According to reports, the 36-year-old flew into Los Angeles on an American Airlines flight that arrived Tuesday afternoon, and was driven to his home in Montecito, California. Harry joined back his wife Meghan Markle and son Archie, who did not attend the funeral owing to Meghan's pregnancy. The Duke gave his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth's 95th birthday a miss which was celebrated in a small- scale at Windsor. The QUeen chose to not celebrate it in a grand way owing to her husband Prince Philip's death on April 9 and due to the ongoing pandemic. Harry will undergo a 10-day quarantine recommended for international travellers by the CDC. The trip to England was Harry`s first return to his native land in more than a year. Harry had received an icy reception and was ignored by senior royals including his father, heir to the throne Prince Charles. The royal repercussions came after Harry told Oprah that he feels trapped by his family, some members of which he accused of being biased against his biracial wife and son, Archie.

Prince Harry skips Queen Elizabeth's 95th birthday celebration as he joins back Meghan in California

As&nbsp;Queen Elizabeth II turned 95&nbsp;on Wednesday, the monarch and her family chose a&nbsp;low-key celebration at Windsor Castle. The Queen's birthday comes just days after the funeral of Prince Philip, her husband of 73 years.&nbsp;

The monarch thanked the public for their "support and kindness".

This was the British monarch`s second low-key birthday since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

Born in London on April 21, 1926, the UK`s longest-reigning sovereign usually celebrates her birthday privately, but the occasion is marked publicly with gun salutes in Hyde Park, Windsor Great Park and at the Tower of London.

This particular tradition was absent from last year`s scaled-back occasion, as it will be Wednesday -- not just because of the pandemic, but because the Royal Family is officially in mourning until Friday.

In a statement released to coincide with her birthday, the Queen thanked the public for their good wishes and said she was "deeply touched" by the tributes that have poured in for the Duke of Edinburgh.

"I have, on the occasion of my 95th birthday today, received many messages of good wishes, which I very much appreciate," she said.

The queen added, "While as a family we are in a period of great sadness, it has been a comfort to us all to see and to hear the tributes paid to my husband, from those within the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and around the world."

"My family and I would like to thank you all for the support and kindness shown to us in recent days. We have been deeply touched, and continue to be reminded that Philip had such an extraordinary impact on countless people throughout his life."

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The Queen’s message to people across the world who have sent tributes and messages of condolence following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh. <a href="https://t.co/1apW7s1zXS">pic.twitter.com/1apW7s1zXS</a>
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1384824648693604356?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Twitter, the royal family posted an official photograph of the Queen, accompanied by the message,&nbsp;"HM was born on 21 April 1926 at 17 Bruton Street in London, the first child of The Duke and Duchess of York."

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Today is The Queen’s 95th birthday. 
 
HM was born on 21 April 1926 at 17 Bruton Street in London, the first child of The Duke and Duchess of York. 
 
This year The Queen remains at Windsor Castle during a period of Royal Mourning following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh. <a href="https://t.co/kOeH399Ndp">pic.twitter.com/kOeH399Ndp</a>
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1384779729362894849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This year The Queen remains at Windsor Castle during a period of Royal Mourning following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh."

Owing to pandemic. the Queen is being attended by only a small number of staff at Windsor Castle, where she spent more than a year in a support bubble with her late husband.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson wished Queen Elizabeth II a happy birthday as he opened Wednesday`s Prime Minister`s Questions session in parliament.

Prince Philip died aged 99 on April 9 two months short of his 100th birthday.&nbsp;After lying in rest for eight days, his funeral was held this past Saturday at St. George`s Chapel in Windsor Castle.&nbsp;

As Queen Elizabeth II turned 95 on Wednesday, the monarch and her family chose a low-key celebration at Windsor Castle. The Queen's birthday comes just days after the funeral of Prince Philip, her husband of 73 years.

As Queen Elizabeth II turned 95 on Wednesday, the monarch and her family chose a low-key celebration at Windsor Castle. The Queen's birthday comes just days after the funeral of Prince Philip, her husband of 73 years. The monarch thanked the public for their "support and kindness". This was the British monarch`s second low-key birthday since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Born in London on April 21, 1926, the UK`s longest-reigning sovereign usually celebrates her birthday privately, but the occasion is marked publicly with gun salutes in Hyde Park, Windsor Great Park and at the Tower of London. This particular tradition was absent from last year`s scaled-back occasion, as it will be Wednesday -- not just because of the pandemic, but because the Royal Family is officially in mourning until Friday. In a statement released to coincide with her birthday, the Queen thanked the public for their good wishes and said she was "deeply touched" by the tributes that have poured in for the Duke of Edinburgh. "I have, on the occasion of my 95th birthday today, received many messages of good wishes, which I very much appreciate," she said. The queen added, "While as a family we are in a period of great sadness, it has been a comfort to us all to see and to hear the tributes paid to my husband, from those within the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and around the world." "My family and I would like to thank you all for the support and kindness shown to us in recent days. We have been deeply touched, and continue to be reminded that Philip had such an extraordinary impact on countless people throughout his life." The Queen’s message to people across the world who have sent tributes and messages of condolence following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh. pic.twitter.com/1apW7s1zXS — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 21, 2021 × On Twitter, the royal family posted an official photograph of the Queen, accompanied by the message, "HM was born on 21 April 1926 at 17 Bruton Street in London, the first child of The Duke and Duchess of York." Today is The Queen’s 95th birthday. HM was born on 21 April 1926 at 17 Bruton Street in London, the first child of The Duke and Duchess of York. This year The Queen remains at Windsor Castle during a period of Royal Mourning following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh. pic.twitter.com/kOeH399Ndp — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 21, 2021 × This year The Queen remains at Windsor Castle during a period of Royal Mourning following the death of The Duke of Edinburgh." Owing to pandemic. the Queen is being attended by only a small number of staff at Windsor Castle, where she spent more than a year in a support bubble with her late husband. Prime Minister Boris Johnson wished Queen Elizabeth II a happy birthday as he opened Wednesday`s Prime Minister`s Questions session in parliament. Prince Philip died aged 99 on April 9 two months short of his 100th birthday. After lying in rest for eight days, his funeral was held this past Saturday at St. George`s Chapel in Windsor Castle.

Queen Elizabeth II thanks public for 'support and kindness' on 95th birthday

Prince Philip's funeral took place on April 17 and&nbsp;one small detail seemed to stand out for observers: Queen Elizabeth's handwritten note, which she placed atop her late husband's casket.

A royal expert quoted in ET explained the significance of Queen Elizabeth's special signature on the private, sealed letter.

"I think one of the most touching things in the whole of the service&nbsp;and there were many very poignant moments -- but certainly seeing the duke's naval cap, his ceremonial sword, that beautiful wreath of flowers, his favourite flowers, white roses and freesia, chosen by the queen that sat atop the coffin with a carefully positioned handwritten note," the expert said.

"You actually really couldn't make out much of the writing but we know it was from the Queen," she explained. "We believe that it was signed 'Lilibet' which was the duke’s name for the Queen."

"He is probably the last person to have called her Lilibet. It's not a name that anyone else uses and I think there will be great poignancy in that," the expert added. "She will never be called Lilibet again."

The couple, who got married in 1947, famously penned love letters to each other over the course of their relationship. 
 
The service was an intimate affair with only 30 people in attendance. In attendance at the service was Prince Charles, grandsons Prince William and Prince Harry, Kate Middleton, Camila, Duchess of Cornwall and many others. Philip died on April 9 at the age of 99, leaving behind four children, eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

&nbsp;

Prince Philip's funeral took place on April 17 and one small detail seemed to stand out for observers: Queen Elizabeth's handwritten note, which she placed atop her late husband's casket.

Prince Philip's funeral took place on April 17 and one small detail seemed to stand out for observers: Queen Elizabeth's handwritten note, which she placed atop her late husband's casket. A royal expert quoted in ET explained the significance of Queen Elizabeth's special signature on the private, sealed letter. "I think one of the most touching things in the whole of the service and there were many very poignant moments -- but certainly seeing the duke's naval cap, his ceremonial sword, that beautiful wreath of flowers, his favourite flowers, white roses and freesia, chosen by the queen that sat atop the coffin with a carefully positioned handwritten note," the expert said. "You actually really couldn't make out much of the writing but we know it was from the Queen," she explained. "We believe that it was signed 'Lilibet' which was the duke’s name for the Queen." "He is probably the last person to have called her Lilibet. It's not a name that anyone else uses and I think there will be great poignancy in that," the expert added. "She will never be called Lilibet again." The couple, who got married in 1947, famously penned love letters to each other over the course of their relationship. The service was an intimate affair with only 30 people in attendance. In attendance at the service was Prince Charles, grandsons Prince William and Prince Harry, Kate Middleton, Camila, Duchess of Cornwall and many others. Philip died on April 9 at the age of 99, leaving behind four children, eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Here's the significance behind Queen's signature on her last note to Prince Philip

Queen Elizabeth II will turn 95 on April 21 but unlike in the past, this year's celebration will be a sombre one for the royal family following the death of the Queen's husband, Prince Philip early this month.&nbsp;

The monarch will not have the usual birthday celebrations this year, several media reports said.&nbsp;

For most royal birthdays, a fresh official portrait of the member is released but this year, no photo will be shared with the press.&nbsp;

Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, died at the age of 99, two months short of his 100th birthday.&nbsp;

The death isn't the only reason why the Queen will not have a birthday celebration this year. The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of the Trooping the Colour, a June event that usually marks the Queen's birthday.

Sources state that plans are being made for a smaller celebration at Windsor Castle like last year. Who all will be attending the celebration is not yet clear.

Prince Philip was buried on Saturday at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.

Queen Elizabeth II will turn 95 on April 21 but unlike in the past, this year's celebration will be a sombre one for the royal family following the death of the Queen's husband, Prince Philip early this month.

Queen Elizabeth II will turn 95 on April 21 but unlike in the past, this year's celebration will be a sombre one for the royal family following the death of the Queen's husband, Prince Philip early this month. The monarch will not have the usual birthday celebrations this year, several media reports said. For most royal birthdays, a fresh official portrait of the member is released but this year, no photo will be shared with the press. Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, died at the age of 99, two months short of his 100th birthday. The death isn't the only reason why the Queen will not have a birthday celebration this year. The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has resulted in the cancellation of the Trooping the Colour, a June event that usually marks the Queen's birthday. Sources state that plans are being made for a smaller celebration at Windsor Castle like last year. Who all will be attending the celebration is not yet clear. Prince Philip was buried on Saturday at St. George's Chapel in Windsor Castle.

Queen Elizabeth's 95th birthday celebrations to be different following Prince Philip's death

Prince Philip's funeral might be over but the details from the ceremony are enough to make the strongest hearts emotional.&nbsp; 
 
The Queen's last written words to her beloved late husband Prince Philip have been revealed.

The monarch placed a very special wreath on top of the Duke's coffin and it carried a special note which appeared to read: "In loving memory, Elizabeth"

According to Hello magazine, the card was handwritten and edged in black, which follows the mourning rituals of the royal family. The wreath featured white lilies, small white roses, white freesias, white wax flowers, white sweet peas and jasmine. 
 
Cutting a solitary figure at the front of the quire, nearest the altar, the Queen sat apart from her children.

The Duke of Edinburgh passed away at age 99 on April 9.&nbsp;The Queen and Philip were married for 73 years. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-and-the-queen-a-match-made-of-love-and-duty-376374">Prince Philip and the Queen: A match made of love and duty</a>

He was laid to rest on April 17, in a private service attended by only 30 guests at St George's Chapel on the grounds of Windsor Castle.

The Duke's coffin was draped with his personal standard and his Admiral of the Fleet Naval cap and sword were placed on top. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-funeral-pics-images-queen-elizabeth-378278">Prince Philip makes his final journey</a>

The Duke's standard features tributes to Philip's heritage with the Danish coat of arms, the Greek cross, Edinburgh Castle and the stripes of the Mountbatten family.

Ahead of the intimate funeral service, the Queen and Philip's four children all took part in the solemn procession, alongside Princes William and Harry, Peter Phillips, Vice-Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, and the Earl of Snowdon.

Among the small group who attended were the Duchess of Cornwall, Duchess of Cambridge and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, who had her arms around her children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn.

Prince Philip's funeral might be over but the details from the ceremony are enough to make the strongest hearts emotional. The Queen's last written words to her beloved late husband Prince Philip have been revealed.

Prince Philip's funeral might be over but the details from the ceremony are enough to make the strongest hearts emotional. The Queen's last written words to her beloved late husband Prince Philip have been revealed. The monarch placed a very special wreath on top of the Duke's coffin and it carried a special note which appeared to read: "In loving memory, Elizabeth" According to Hello magazine, the card was handwritten and edged in black, which follows the mourning rituals of the royal family. The wreath featured white lilies, small white roses, white freesias, white wax flowers, white sweet peas and jasmine. Cutting a solitary figure at the front of the quire, nearest the altar, the Queen sat apart from her children. The Duke of Edinburgh passed away at age 99 on April 9. The Queen and Philip were married for 73 years. Prince Philip and the Queen: A match made of love and duty He was laid to rest on April 17, in a private service attended by only 30 guests at St George's Chapel on the grounds of Windsor Castle. The Duke's coffin was draped with his personal standard and his Admiral of the Fleet Naval cap and sword were placed on top. Prince Philip makes his final journey The Duke's standard features tributes to Philip's heritage with the Danish coat of arms, the Greek cross, Edinburgh Castle and the stripes of the Mountbatten family. Ahead of the intimate funeral service, the Queen and Philip's four children all took part in the solemn procession, alongside Princes William and Harry, Peter Phillips, Vice-Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, and the Earl of Snowdon. Among the small group who attended were the Duchess of Cornwall, Duchess of Cambridge and Sophie, Countess of Wessex, who had her arms around her children, Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn.

Here's what Queen wrote in her last note to Prince Philip

Prince Charles holds the title of the Duke of Edinburgh after the recent demise of his father and Queen's husband Prince Philip. 
 
However, the title will eventually pass on to his youngest son the Earl of Wessex, after the death of the Queen.

When Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones married in 1999, they were given the titles the Earl and Countess of Wessex, but Buckingham Palace also announced that Edward would eventually one day succeed his father as the Duke of Edinburgh.

In keeping with the Letters Patent issued when George VI gave Philip the title in 1947, the Prince of Wales, as the duke’s eldest son, inherits the title the Duke of Edinburgh, but on Charles’s eventual accession to the throne, the title will merge with the crown and can be regranted anew to Edward.

When Edward married in 1999, the Palace stated that the Queen, Philip and Charles had agreed that Edward would become the Duke of Edinburgh in due course, but that he would only inherit the title following the death of both the Queen and the duke.

A title held by someone who becomes monarch is said to merge with the Crown and ceases to exist, so can be recreated for someone else.

The decision to give Edward the title was taken in recognition of his work with, and commitment to, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – of which he is a trustee, as well as chairman of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

Edward’s wife the Countess of Wessex will eventually become the Duchess of Edinburgh – a courtesy title which was held by the Queen.

Philip was the sixth person – including two Dukes of Gloucester and Edinburgh – to bear the title the Duke of Edinburgh.

The first was George I’s grandson Prince Frederick, later the Prince of Wales, for whom the title was first created in the Peerage of Great Britain in 1726.

George VI gave Philip the titles of the Duke of Edinburgh, Earl of Merioneth and Baron Greenwich in the Peerage of the United Kingdom shortly before his marriage to Princess Elizabeth on November 20 1947.

Philip’s great-great-uncle, Prince Alfred Ernest Albert, fourth child and second son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, was also a Duke of Edinburgh in the Peerage of the United Kingdom.

Prince Charles holds the title of the Duke of Edinburgh after the recent demise of his father and Queen's husband Prince Philip. However, the title will eventually pass on to his youngest son the Earl of Wessex, after the death of the Queen.

Prince Charles holds the title of the Duke of Edinburgh after the recent demise of his father and Queen's husband Prince Philip. However, the title will eventually pass on to his youngest son the Earl of Wessex, after the death of the Queen. When Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones married in 1999, they were given the titles the Earl and Countess of Wessex, but Buckingham Palace also announced that Edward would eventually one day succeed his father as the Duke of Edinburgh. In keeping with the Letters Patent issued when George VI gave Philip the title in 1947, the Prince of Wales, as the duke’s eldest son, inherits the title the Duke of Edinburgh, but on Charles’s eventual accession to the throne, the title will merge with the crown and can be regranted anew to Edward. When Edward married in 1999, the Palace stated that the Queen, Philip and Charles had agreed that Edward would become the Duke of Edinburgh in due course, but that he would only inherit the title following the death of both the Queen and the duke. A title held by someone who becomes monarch is said to merge with the Crown and ceases to exist, so can be recreated for someone else. The decision to give Edward the title was taken in recognition of his work with, and commitment to, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – of which he is a trustee, as well as chairman of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Edward’s wife the Countess of Wessex will eventually become the Duchess of Edinburgh – a courtesy title which was held by the Queen. Philip was the sixth person – including two Dukes of Gloucester and Edinburgh – to bear the title the Duke of Edinburgh. The first was George I’s grandson Prince Frederick, later the Prince of Wales, for whom the title was first created in the Peerage of Great Britain in 1726. George VI gave Philip the titles of the Duke of Edinburgh, Earl of Merioneth and Baron Greenwich in the Peerage of the United Kingdom shortly before his marriage to Princess Elizabeth on November 20 1947. Philip’s great-great-uncle, Prince Alfred Ernest Albert, fourth child and second son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, was also a Duke of Edinburgh in the Peerage of the United Kingdom.

Here's why the new Duke of Edinburgh is going to change eventually

Kate Middleton paid respect to the bond between Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip at the Duke's funeral. 
 
The Duchess of Cambridge wore a necklace that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II in what could be an act of solidarity with the monarch. She paired this with a black outfit and diamond earrings. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/live-updates-prince-philips-funeral-duke-of-edinburgh-to-be-laid-to-rest-at-royal-ceremony-378167" hreflang="en">Live updates: Procession for Duke of Edinburgh is underway</a>

Kate arrived at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle ahead of the funeral of Prince Philip. The royal is just one of 30 guests allowed to attend due to current coronavirus restrictions.

Kate was seen with Prince William as they arrived by car. The royal wore a pearl choker which belongs to the Queen and was previously borrowed by Princess Diana.

The four-strand pearl choker was worn by the monarch during the 1980s and 1990s. Kate wore the necklace with drop diamond and pearl earrings which are also part of the Queen's collection. 
 
Interestingly, Kate has borrowed them for several events in the past, mostly wearing the subtle jewels for formal occasions. They were believed to be a wedding gift given to the Queen when she married Prince Philip in 1947.

The feature diamond studs with pearls hanging from chains covered in diamonds.

Kate has borrowed many pieces of the Queen's jewellery over the years and seems to have chosen pieces with key sentimental value for the funeral today.

For the funeral, the Duchess was also seen wearing a thin lace veil that covered half her face. The Duchess was seen wearing a black top that had an asymmetric design. Her hair was&nbsp;pulled back into a low bun.

The mother-of-three covered up with a black face mask as she sat next to Prince William when they arrived.

Prince William also wore a black face-covering in the car. The Duke of Cambridge was seen in a black suit with a white shirt and black tie.

Kate Middleton paid respect to the bond between Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip at the Duke's funeral. The Duchess of Cambridge wore a necklace that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II in what could be an act of solidarity with the monarch.

Kate Middleton paid respect to the bond between Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip at the Duke's funeral. The Duchess of Cambridge wore a necklace that belonged to Queen Elizabeth II in what could be an act of solidarity with the monarch. She paired this with a black outfit and diamond earrings. Live updates: Procession for Duke of Edinburgh is underway Kate arrived at St George's Chapel at Windsor Castle ahead of the funeral of Prince Philip. The royal is just one of 30 guests allowed to attend due to current coronavirus restrictions. Kate was seen with Prince William as they arrived by car. The royal wore a pearl choker which belongs to the Queen and was previously borrowed by Princess Diana. The four-strand pearl choker was worn by the monarch during the 1980s and 1990s. Kate wore the necklace with drop diamond and pearl earrings which are also part of the Queen's collection. Interestingly, Kate has borrowed them for several events in the past, mostly wearing the subtle jewels for formal occasions. They were believed to be a wedding gift given to the Queen when she married Prince Philip in 1947. The feature diamond studs with pearls hanging from chains covered in diamonds. Kate has borrowed many pieces of the Queen's jewellery over the years and seems to have chosen pieces with key sentimental value for the funeral today. For the funeral, the Duchess was also seen wearing a thin lace veil that covered half her face. The Duchess was seen wearing a black top that had an asymmetric design. Her hair was pulled back into a low bun. The mother-of-three covered up with a black face mask as she sat next to Prince William when they arrived. Prince William also wore a black face-covering in the car. The Duke of Cambridge was seen in a black suit with a white shirt and black tie.

Prince Philip's funeral: Kate Middleton dons earrings given to Queen as wedding gift

Prince Philip&nbsp;passed away on the&nbsp;morning of April 9, at Windsor Castle. The Queen and Philip were married for 74 years and were the only couple in the family's history to celebrate their platinum anniversary.

The Duke's funeral is&nbsp;taking place on&nbsp; April 17, at 3 pm BST in St George's Chapel in Windsor. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/live-updates-prince-philips-funeral-duke-of-edinburgh-to-be-laid-to-rest-at-royal-ceremony-378167" hreflang="en">Live updates: Duke of Edinburgh to be laid to rest at royal ceremony</a>

The Royal Family stated on Twitter that "the plans for the funeral are in line with His Royal Highness's own personal wishes".

The statement added: "The occasion will recognise and celebrate The Duke's life and more than 70 years of service to The Queen, the UK and the Commonwealth."

When a member of the Royal Family dies, there are many traditions and protocols that the rest of the family must follow. Prince Philip was entitled to have a state funeral, but royal tradition is being broken as the Duke of Edinburgh insisted that he did not want any "fuss". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-the-queen-will-pause-to-gaze-on-prince-philips-coffin-as-its-lowered-into-final-resting-place-reports-378186" hreflang="en">The Queen will pause to gaze on Prince Philip's coffin as it's lowered into final resting place: Reports</a>

Philip will therefore have a more low-key ceremony with only close family members expected to attend.

The Royal Family has been in a period of mourning since Prince Philip's death and has been wearing black or darker colours during this time. The family will wear black for the funeral too, including those who would usually opt for a military uniform.

According to Sky News, it was announced this morning that members of the Royal Family will not be wearing their military uniforms after "apparent difficulties in deciding who should be allowed to wear what".

Prince Charles and Prince William were expected to wear military outfits for the ceremony, but it was already expected that Harry - who flew to the UK from his home in the US on Monday - would wear a black suit due to him losing his military titles.

Princess Anne wore her military uniform for the Queen Mother's funeral in 2002, but will be wearing black on Saturday due to the new rules, decided and ordered by the Queen. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-meghan-markle-to-make-private-arrangements-to-remember-prince-philip-report-378138" hreflang="en">Meghan Markle to make 'private arrangements' to remember Prince Philip: Report</a>

Her Majesty wore a mid-length black coat, a black hat, and matching black tights, shoes, and a bag for her mother's funeral.

This is what she also wore for her sister's funeral, also held in 2002.

Like Prince Philip's funeral, Princess Margaret's ceremony was a low-key affair, taking place in St George's Chapel with only close family and friends in attendance. 
 
&nbsp;

It is not yet clear what the Duchess of Cambridge and other young female Royals will wear to the funeral, but they will follow rules which have been said to be preferred by the Queen.

The rules include wearing longer skirts with black tights, as well as wearing a hat or a fascinator.

Due to coronavirus restrictions, the funeral's attendees are also expected to wear black face masks.

After the news of the Prince's death broke on April 9, all British newsreaders wore black. This is because that Operation Forth Bridge, which is code for Prince Philip's death, dictated that newsreaders must wear black if on-air throughout the day, as well as any other news presenters, as a sign of respect.

Additionally, MPs wore black armbands and will continue to do so until Prince Philip's funeral.

Prince Philip passed away on the morning of April 9, at Windsor Castle. The Queen and Philip were married for 74 years and were the only couple in the family's history to celebrate their platinum anniversary.

Prince Philip passed away on the morning of April 9, at Windsor Castle. The Queen and Philip were married for 74 years and were the only couple in the family's history to celebrate their platinum anniversary. The Duke's funeral is taking place on April 17, at 3 pm BST in St George's Chapel in Windsor. Live updates: Duke of Edinburgh to be laid to rest at royal ceremony The Royal Family stated on Twitter that "the plans for the funeral are in line with His Royal Highness's own personal wishes". The statement added: "The occasion will recognise and celebrate The Duke's life and more than 70 years of service to The Queen, the UK and the Commonwealth." When a member of the Royal Family dies, there are many traditions and protocols that the rest of the family must follow. Prince Philip was entitled to have a state funeral, but royal tradition is being broken as the Duke of Edinburgh insisted that he did not want any "fuss". The Queen will pause to gaze on Prince Philip's coffin as it's lowered into final resting place: Reports Philip will therefore have a more low-key ceremony with only close family members expected to attend. The Royal Family has been in a period of mourning since Prince Philip's death and has been wearing black or darker colours during this time. The family will wear black for the funeral too, including those who would usually opt for a military uniform. According to Sky News, it was announced this morning that members of the Royal Family will not be wearing their military uniforms after "apparent difficulties in deciding who should be allowed to wear what". Prince Charles and Prince William were expected to wear military outfits for the ceremony, but it was already expected that Harry - who flew to the UK from his home in the US on Monday - would wear a black suit due to him losing his military titles. Princess Anne wore her military uniform for the Queen Mother's funeral in 2002, but will be wearing black on Saturday due to the new rules, decided and ordered by the Queen. Meghan Markle to make 'private arrangements' to remember Prince Philip: Report Her Majesty wore a mid-length black coat, a black hat, and matching black tights, shoes, and a bag for her mother's funeral. This is what she also wore for her sister's funeral, also held in 2002. Like Prince Philip's funeral, Princess Margaret's ceremony was a low-key affair, taking place in St George's Chapel with only close family and friends in attendance. It is not yet clear what the Duchess of Cambridge and other young female Royals will wear to the funeral, but they will follow rules which have been said to be preferred by the Queen. The rules include wearing longer skirts with black tights, as well as wearing a hat or a fascinator. Due to coronavirus restrictions, the funeral's attendees are also expected to wear black face masks. After the news of the Prince's death broke on April 9, all British newsreaders wore black. This is because that Operation Forth Bridge, which is code for Prince Philip's death, dictated that newsreaders must wear black if on-air throughout the day, as well as any other news presenters, as a sign of respect. Additionally, MPs wore black armbands and will continue to do so until Prince Philip's funeral.

Prince Philip's funeral: Here's what royals will wear as part of event's protocol

The Queen will pause to gaze on Prince Philip's coffin as it is lowered into the Duke of Edinburgh's final resting place at his funeral on Saturday.

Prince Philip, 99,&nbsp;passed away on April 9, and his funeral is taking place at St George's Chapel eight days after his death. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/live-updates-prince-philips-funeral-duke-of-edinburgh-to-be-laid-to-rest-at-royal-ceremony-378167">Live updates: Prince Philip's funeral — Duke of Edinburgh to be laid to rest at royal ceremony</a>

More details are being revealed about the ceremony, which will see the Duke's coffin arrive in a Land Rover that he had a hand in designing, including how his widow will say her last goodbye to him.

After sitting alone during the ceremony, the Queen will stand in front of her husband's coffin and watch it be lowered into the royal vault in a poignant moment that will be broadcast around the world.

Before the coffin is lowered, a Royal Marine will play the Action Stations – which is sounded on naval warships to signal all hands must go to battle stations – following a tradition in naval funerals that will honour Philip's service during World War II.

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "While clearly the plans have been modified to take into account public health guidelines, the ceremonial aspects of the day and the funeral service itself are still very much in line with the Duke's wishes." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-and-the-queen-a-match-made-of-love-and-duty-376374#royal-engagement-376366">Pictures | Prince Philip and the Queen: A match made of love and duty</a>

Prince Philip's funeral has been scaled back due to coronavirus restrictions, meaning only 30 people are allowed to attend instead of the 800-1000 that usually attend royal ceremonies.

It has been revealed the Duke of Edinburgh will continue to rest inside a Private Chapel before the funeral takes place on Saturday, where he will be draped in his personal standard equipped with his naval cap and a wreath of family flowers on top.

He will then be moved to the entrance of the Inner Hall of Windsor Castle, where his coffin will be loaded into the Jaguar Land Rover he designed himself. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-prince-philip-planned-his-own-funeral-for-over-18-years-378142">Also read | Prince Philip planned his own funeral for over 18 years</a>

The Queen will arrive in her Bentley, at the rear of the procession, where it will pause briefly before making its way to Galilee Porch, where Her Majesty, 94, will be received by the Dean of Windsor.

A national minute's silence will take place at 3 pm BST before the coffin is taken into St George's Chapel.

The Queen will pause to gaze on Prince Philip's coffin as it is lowered into the Duke of Edinburgh's final resting place at his funeral on Saturday. Prince Philip, 99, passed away on April 9, and his funeral is taking place at St George's Chapel eight days after his death.

The Queen will pause to gaze on Prince Philip's coffin as it is lowered into the Duke of Edinburgh's final resting place at his funeral on Saturday. Prince Philip, 99, passed away on April 9, and his funeral is taking place at St George's Chapel eight days after his death. Live updates: Prince Philip's funeral — Duke of Edinburgh to be laid to rest at royal ceremony More details are being revealed about the ceremony, which will see the Duke's coffin arrive in a Land Rover that he had a hand in designing, including how his widow will say her last goodbye to him. After sitting alone during the ceremony, the Queen will stand in front of her husband's coffin and watch it be lowered into the royal vault in a poignant moment that will be broadcast around the world. Before the coffin is lowered, a Royal Marine will play the Action Stations – which is sounded on naval warships to signal all hands must go to battle stations – following a tradition in naval funerals that will honour Philip's service during World War II. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "While clearly the plans have been modified to take into account public health guidelines, the ceremonial aspects of the day and the funeral service itself are still very much in line with the Duke's wishes." Pictures | Prince Philip and the Queen: A match made of love and duty Prince Philip's funeral has been scaled back due to coronavirus restrictions, meaning only 30 people are allowed to attend instead of the 800-1000 that usually attend royal ceremonies. It has been revealed the Duke of Edinburgh will continue to rest inside a Private Chapel before the funeral takes place on Saturday, where he will be draped in his personal standard equipped with his naval cap and a wreath of family flowers on top. He will then be moved to the entrance of the Inner Hall of Windsor Castle, where his coffin will be loaded into the Jaguar Land Rover he designed himself. Also read | Prince Philip planned his own funeral for over 18 years The Queen will arrive in her Bentley, at the rear of the procession, where it will pause briefly before making its way to Galilee Porch, where Her Majesty, 94, will be received by the Dean of Windsor. A national minute's silence will take place at 3 pm BST before the coffin is taken into St George's Chapel.

The Queen will pause to gaze on Prince Philip's coffin as it's lowered into final resting place: Reports

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed&nbsp;away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news.&nbsp;Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone&nbsp;a successful heart procedure.&nbsp;

Prince Philip assumed somewhat a secondary position when it came limelight as compared to the Queen but was a strong presence and support to her. They both got married on November 20, 1947 and were at each other's side for more than 7 decades.

Here is the full statement released by Buckingham Palace.

"It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

"His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.

"Further announcements will be made in due course.

"The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss."

The Union Jack on Buckingham Palace was at half mast as a tribute to Prince Philip. UK PM Boris Johnson hailed Prince Philip's 'extraordinary life'.

Also See | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/prince-philip-duke-of-edinburgh-life-in-pictures-376334">Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures</a>

Johnson said the Duke of Edinburgh "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world after serving in the Royal Navy and then over decades as Britain's longest serving royal consort.

"We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street.

(With AFP inputs)

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news. Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone a successful heart procedure.

UK's Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passed away on Friday. He was 99. A statement from Buckingham Palace made public the sad news. Prince Philip was recently hospitalised and had undergone a successful heart procedure. Prince Philip assumed somewhat a secondary position when it came limelight as compared to the Queen but was a strong presence and support to her. They both got married on November 20, 1947 and were at each other's side for more than 7 decades. Here is the full statement released by Buckingham Palace. "It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen announces the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. "His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle. "Further announcements will be made in due course. "The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss." The Union Jack on Buckingham Palace was at half mast as a tribute to Prince Philip. UK PM Boris Johnson hailed Prince Philip's 'extraordinary life'. Also See | Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh: Life in pictures Johnson said the Duke of Edinburgh "earned the affection of generations" at home, in the Commonwealth and across the world after serving in the Royal Navy and then over decades as Britain's longest serving royal consort. "We give thanks, as a nation and a kingdom, for the extraordinary life and work of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," the prime minister said outside 10 Downing Street. (With AFP inputs)

Queen Elizabeth II's husband Prince Philip passes away

Queen Elizabeth II, the United Kingdom’s 94-year-old monarch, has told her subjects to stop being selfish and “think of others rather than yourselves” and get a COVID-19 vaccine.

The head of state was speaking on a video call with health professionals and said “it didn’t hurt at all.”

The monarch and her 99-year-old husband Prince Philip, who is currently in hospital with a non-COVID infection, received their shots from a household doctor at the queen’s Windsor Castle residence, with their age putting them in the priority group for England’s coronavirus vaccine rollout.

“Once you’ve had a vaccine you have a feeling of you know, you’re protected which I think is very important and as far as I could make out it was quite harmless,” the queen said in a video call with health officials overseeing inoculations across the four nations of the United Kingdom.

“It was very quick, and I’ve had lots of letters from people who have been very surprised by how easy it was to get the vaccine. And the jab – it didn’t hurt at all,” she added, likening the virus to a plague.

More than 18.6 million Britons have already received their first COVID-19 vaccine injection, and celebrities including singer Elton John and actor Michael Caine have joined campaigns encouraging people to take up offers to have the shot.

Britain’s vaccines minister said this week that between 11% and 15% of the public were hesitant about getting the shot, particularly among ethnic minority groups, amid conspiracy theories around the inoculations.

“It is obviously difficult for people if they’ve never had a vaccine because they ought to think about other people other than themselves,” said the queen, who described Britain’s rollout of the vaccination, one of the fastest in the world, as “remarkable”.

Other members of the royal family, including heir-to-the-throne Prince Charles and his son Prince William, have been visiting vaccination centres over the last fortnight to thank staff and volunteers for their work.

It comes, though, amid concern over the health of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, who was admitted to a London hospital last week and has since spent nine nights there receiving medical attention for an unspecified infection.

The palace has said Philip, who turns 100 in June, was comfortable and responding to treatment, but likely to remain in hospital for several days. A royal source said it was expected the prince would remain in hospital for a second weekend.

On Tuesday, the Duke and the queen’s youngest son Prince Edward said he was “a lot better”, and the day before William said his grandfather was “OK”.

(With inputs from agencies)

Queen Elizabeth II, the United Kingdom’s 94-year-old monarch, has told her subjects to stop being selfish and “think of others rather than yourselves” and get a COVID-19 vaccine.

Queen Elizabeth II, the United Kingdom’s 94-year-old monarch, has told her subjects to stop being selfish and “think of others rather than yourselves” and get a COVID-19 vaccine. The head of state was speaking on a video call with health professionals and said “it didn’t hurt at all.” The monarch and her 99-year-old husband Prince Philip, who is currently in hospital with a non-COVID infection, received their shots from a household doctor at the queen’s Windsor Castle residence, with their age putting them in the priority group for England’s coronavirus vaccine rollout. “Once you’ve had a vaccine you have a feeling of you know, you’re protected which I think is very important and as far as I could make out it was quite harmless,” the queen said in a video call with health officials overseeing inoculations across the four nations of the United Kingdom. “It was very quick, and I’ve had lots of letters from people who have been very surprised by how easy it was to get the vaccine. And the jab – it didn’t hurt at all,” she added, likening the virus to a plague. More than 18.6 million Britons have already received their first COVID-19 vaccine injection, and celebrities including singer Elton John and actor Michael Caine have joined campaigns encouraging people to take up offers to have the shot. Britain’s vaccines minister said this week that between 11% and 15% of the public were hesitant about getting the shot, particularly among ethnic minority groups, amid conspiracy theories around the inoculations. “It is obviously difficult for people if they’ve never had a vaccine because they ought to think about other people other than themselves,” said the queen, who described Britain’s rollout of the vaccination, one of the fastest in the world, as “remarkable”. Other members of the royal family, including heir-to-the-throne Prince Charles and his son Prince William, have been visiting vaccination centres over the last fortnight to thank staff and volunteers for their work. It comes, though, amid concern over the health of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, who was admitted to a London hospital last week and has since spent nine nights there receiving medical attention for an unspecified infection. The palace has said Philip, who turns 100 in June, was comfortable and responding to treatment, but likely to remain in hospital for several days. A royal source said it was expected the prince would remain in hospital for a second weekend. On Tuesday, the Duke and the queen’s youngest son Prince Edward said he was “a lot better”, and the day before William said his grandfather was “OK”. (With inputs from agencies)

Don’t be selfish and think of others, get a Covid shot: Queen Elizabeth

A kitchen staffer at Britain's Buckingham Palace has been sentenced to eight months of jail for stealing items from the palace and selling them on eBay.&nbsp; 
 
Adamo Canto, 37, worked as a kitchen assistant inside the palace and was sentenced in court on Monday after pleading guilty to three counts of theft between November 2019 and August 2020.&nbsp; 
 
According to the Police, they have recovered a 'significant quantity' of stolen items when they searched his staff quarters in Buckingham Palace which serves as Queen Elizabeth's London residence. Adamo had been working there since 2015. 
 
The goods recovered are reportedly worth $136,000 &nbsp;and some of them were lsited on the eBay auction site for a small fraction of their actual worth.&nbsp;

The items that were put up on the e-portal included items like prestigious medals and a photo album showing images from the Queen's state banquet for US pResident rump when he visited Britain in June 2019.&nbsp; 
 
Canto stated he was desperate for money to pay off debts. He even stole a limited edition pocket watch and a Samsung mobile specially made for Queen's second son Prince Andrew.&nbsp;

A kitchen staffer at Britain's Buckingham Palace has been sentenced to eight months of jail for stealing items from the palace and selling them on eBay. Adamo Canto, 37, worked as a kitchen assistant inside the palace and was sentenced in court on Monday after pleading guilty to three counts of theft between November 2019 and August 2020.

A kitchen staffer at Britain's Buckingham Palace has been sentenced to eight months of jail for stealing items from the palace and selling them on eBay. Adamo Canto, 37, worked as a kitchen assistant inside the palace and was sentenced in court on Monday after pleading guilty to three counts of theft between November 2019 and August 2020. According to the Police, they have recovered a 'significant quantity' of stolen items when they searched his staff quarters in Buckingham Palace which serves as Queen Elizabeth's London residence. Adamo had been working there since 2015. The goods recovered are reportedly worth $136,000 and some of them were lsited on the eBay auction site for a small fraction of their actual worth. The items that were put up on the e-portal included items like prestigious medals and a photo album showing images from the Queen's state banquet for US pResident rump when he visited Britain in June 2019. Canto stated he was desperate for money to pay off debts. He even stole a limited edition pocket watch and a Samsung mobile specially made for Queen's second son Prince Andrew.

Queen Elizabeth's staffer jailed for stealing royal items from Buckingham Palace and selling them on eBay