CELEBRATION OF THE DIAMOND JUBILEE
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger Photographer: George Whylie Videographer: Maxine NolanLondon, England has been celebrating the Diamond Jubilee for the past few days to mark the 60th anniversary of the accession of Queen Elizabeth II to the thrones of seven countries upon the death of her father, King George VI on February 6, 1952.
The festive finale came on Tuesday, June 5th, as flags were flying, cannons were fired into the air with precision and aircraft from the Battle of Britain were soaring across the sky.
Crowds gathered throughout the streets to pay tribute to the Queen as she traveled by carriage from Westminster to Buckingham Palace. Her husband, Prince Philip, has been hospitalized with a bladder infection and was absent from the celebration gala much to his chagrin.
Of course, loyal followers also came out to catch a glimpse of grandsons, Prince William and Prince Harry along with Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge as well as Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall. As always, Kate looked absolutely stunning in an Alexander McQueen slim-fitting soft peach-beige lace dress designed by Sarah Burton. Her favorite milliner, Jane Taylor, designed the hat to accessorize the ensemble.
The Queen gave thanks to all those who organized the Diamond Jubilee and seemed truly touched by all the people that came out to salute her. The event was widely televised for the entire world to watch.
A service of thanksgiving was held at St. Paul’s Cathedral as the Queen arrived to the salute of trumpets which was then followed by a formal luncheon with over 700 guests. People from every walk of life were present. The menu consisted of marinated Uist Island salmon with Lyme Bay crab, Welsh Cambrian Mountain lamb braised shoulder of lamb, grilled Isle of Wight asparagus, Jersey Royal potatoes and finally, ‘Jubilee Sauce’ in honor of the occasion. “God Save the Queen” was sang by the congregation for all to hear.
After the luncheon, the procession moved back to Buckingham Palace. Visitors lining the streets for miles in order to be a part of the big day came from both near and far just to be a part of this monumental celebration. The U.S. President Barack Obama conveyed “heartfelt congratulations of the American people” in a video message posted on the White House website paying tribute to the everlasting reign of the Queen.
Also held was a star-studded Diamond Jubilee Concert with talent such as Grace Jones, Cheryl Cole, Paul McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Elton John.
PHOTO CREDITS: Getty Images and PA
