The Queen releases a special Diamond Jubilee statement

It's 60 years to the day since Queen Elizabeth took the throne

The Queen has thanked the public for the messages of support she has received about her Diamond Jubilee.

It's 60 years to the day since Queen Elizabeth took the throne, aged just 25, on February 6, 1952 following the death of her father King George VI.

In a special message, the Queen said she looks to the future with a 'clear head and warm heart' and that she hope this unique year will help to unite families and communities.

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In a statement issued by Buckingham Palace, the Queen said: 'Today, as I mark 60 years as your Queen, I am writing to thank you for the wonderful support and encouragement that you have given to me and Prince Philip over these years and to tell you how deeply moved we have been to receive so many kind messages about the Diamond Jubilee.

'In this special year, as I dedicate myself anew to your service, I hope we will all be reminded of the power of togetherness and the convening strength of family, friendship and good neighbourliness, examples of which I have been fortunate to see throughout my reign and which my family and I look forward to seeing in many forms as we travel throughout the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth.'

The Queen, who is currently staying at Sandringham, will mark her 60 year anniversary by visiting a school in King’s Lynn, Norfolk today, but later in the year the historic occasion will marked by many national events and an extended four-day Bank Holiday weekend in June.

Are you looking forward to the Diamond Jubilee celebrations? How will you mark the occasion? Let us know in the comment box below...

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