Queen news - live: BBC documentary to show unseen footage of royal family

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

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

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

Members of the public tuning into the upcoming BBC documentary, Elizabeth: The Unseen Queen, will get to catch a glimpse into the “fun behind the formality” of royal life, the Queen will say in her introduction of the footage.

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

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

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

Key points

• When is the Platinum Jubilee?

• Eight towns awarded city status to mark platinum jubilee

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

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

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

07:44 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

07:43 , Kate Ng

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 17:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

Maryam Zakir-Hussain reports:

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

Why does the Queen love corgis so much?

Thursday 26 May 2022 16:30 , Kate Ng

For over eight decades, from 1933 to 2018, Queen Elizabeth II has owned at least one corgi – a dog breed that has become as synonymous with Her Majesty as Buckingham Palace.

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

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

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 15:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 14:30 , Kate Ng

Mark your calendars if you haven’t already:

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

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 13:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

Find out what Her Majesty’s preferences are below:

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

Royal corgi revealed as platinum jubilee emoji

Thursday 26 May 2022 13:07 , Kate Ng

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

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

Find out more about PJ below:

Royal corgi revealed as platinum jubilee emoji

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 12:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

Kate Middleton reunites with Holocaust survivor

Thursday 26 May 2022 11:32 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PA

It’s time for royal tours to end

Thursday 26 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

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

It’s time for royal tours to end

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PA

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 08:35 , Kate Ng

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

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

Find out more about his visit below:

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

Thursday 26 May 2022 08:31 , Kate Ng

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 17:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 16:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 15:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PA

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 14:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

70 fun facts about the Queen

Wednesday 25 May 2022 13:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

70 facts about the Queen to mark her Platinum Jubilee

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 12:30 , Kate Ng

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

My colleague Saman Javed has the answers:

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

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 11:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

Saman Javed reports:

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

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 08:48 , Kate Ng

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

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

Culture Reporter Nicole Vassell has the full story:

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

Wednesday 25 May 2022 08:38 , Kate Ng

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

Tuesday 24 May 2022 18:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

Tuesday 24 May 2022 18:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

Olivia Petter reports:

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

The Queen meets The Amir of Qatar

Tuesday 24 May 2022 17:54 , Laura Hampson

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

How old was Her Majesty when she became the Queen?

Tuesday 24 May 2022 17:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

How old was the Queen when she became the Queen?

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

Tuesday 24 May 2022 16:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

Tuesday 24 May 2022 15:00 , Kate Ng

On Thursday 2 June, the Queen will celebrate her “official” birthday with a military parade. The annual celebration, known as Trooping the Colour, is held on the Mall outside Buckingham Palace.

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

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

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

Which platinum jubilee events will Harry and Meghan attend?

Tuesday 24 May 2022 14:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

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

Tuesday 24 May 2022 13:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

Read her full statement below:

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

Tuesday 24 May 2022 12:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

Everything that happened at the Queen’s previous jubilees

Tuesday 24 May 2022 11:00 , Kate Ng

Over her decades-long reign, Queen Elizabeth II has celebrated her Silver, Gold and Diamond Jubilees in spectacular fashion, with plenty of events, pageants and tours to celebrate.

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

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

How to throw a jubilee street party

Tuesday 24 May 2022 10:00 , Kate Ng

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

How to throw a jubilee street party

Queen tours Chelsea Flower show in electric buggy

Tuesday 24 May 2022 08:54 , Kate Ng

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

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

Chelsea Ritschel reports:

The Queen tours Chelsea Flower Show in a buggy

Tuesday 24 May 2022 08:41 , Kate Ng

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

Monday 23 May 2022 18:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

Monday 23 May 2022 17:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

Olivia Petter reports:

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

Plan your supermarket shop ahead of platinum jubilee weekend

Monday 23 May 2022 16:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

Monday 23 May 2022 15:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

Read more about her visit in Canada:

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

How you can take part in the platinum jubilee beacons

Monday 23 May 2022 14:00 , Kate Ng

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

Here’s how you can get involved:

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

Everything you need to know about the Platinum Jubilee Pageant

Monday 23 May 2022 13:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

When is the Platinum Jubilee Pageant and who is performing?

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

Monday 23 May 2022 12:00 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

Read the full story:

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

Tube strike threatened for day after Jubilee weekend

Monday 23 May 2022 11:13 , Kate Ng

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

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

Our Travel Editor Helen Coffey reports:

Tube strike threatened for day after Jubilee weekend

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

Monday 23 May 2022 10:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

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

Monday 23 May 2022 09:30 , Kate Ng

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

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

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

Our Deputy Lifestyle Editor Laura Hampson reports:

Jennie Bond: ‘Charles will make a fine King’

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

Monday 23 May 2022 08:33 , Kate Ng

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

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

My colleague Saman Javed has the details:

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

Monday 23 May 2022 08:32 , Kate Ng

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

Sunday 22 May 2022 17:30 , Saman Javed

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

Commemorate the Queen’s platinum jubilee with some regal merchandise

Sunday 22 May 2022 17:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

Commemorate the Queen’s platinum jubilee with some regal merchandise

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

Sunday 22 May 2022 16:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

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

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

Kate Ng has the full story here:

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

Cookbook containing 70 recipes from around the world marks platinum jubilee

Sunday 22 May 2022 15:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

Saman Javed has the details:

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

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

Sunday 22 May 2022 14:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

Saman Javed has the full story here:

What is the Queen’s last name?

Sunday 22 May 2022 13:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

What is the Queen’s last name?

What time will pubs open on the platinum jubilee weekend?

Sunday 22 May 2022 12:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

Joanna Whitehead has the full story here:

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

Queen plans to visit Chelsea Flower Show, Buckingham Palace says

Sunday 22 May 2022 11:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

Read more here:

Queen hoping to visit Chelsea Flower Show, Palace says

One in three Britons think the Queen should retire

Sunday 22 May 2022 10:00 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

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

Kate Ng has the full story here:

One in three Britons think the Queen should retire

Prince Charles and Camilla to feature in EastEnders jubilee special

Sunday 22 May 2022 08:50 , Saman Javed

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

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

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

Louis Chilton has the details:

Prince Charles and Camilla to feature in EastEnders Jubilee special

Sunday 22 May 2022 08:45 , Saman Javed

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

Saturday 21 May 2022 17:30 , Saman Javed

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

How to take part in platinum jubilee beacon

Saturday 21 May 2022 17:05 , Saman Javed

The platinum jubilee beacons are one of the official events of the jubilee celebration, running across the extended bank holiday.

More than 2,022 beacons will be lit throughout the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and British Overseas Territories, including one in each of the capital cities of Commonwealth countries, in recognition of the Queen’s service.

There are hundreds of existing events that have already been scheduled across the UK. To find one near you, simply search for platinum jubilee beacons events in your area.

Joanna Whitehead has the details here:

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

Everything we know about the platinum jubilee schedule

Saturday 21 May 2022 16:04 , Saman Javed

The Queen’s historic milestone will be celebrated in a number of events and initiatives taking place across the UK during the long weekend.

These will include public events and community activities, as well as national moments of reflection on the Queen’s 70 years of service.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) said that more than 70,000 “Big Jubilee Lunches” have been planned across all four UK nations, with an expected 10 million people set to celebrate with their neighbours during the weekend.

Kate Ng has the full schedule of celebrations taking place across the weekend:

What events are scheduled during the Platinum Jubilee bank holiday?

Which platinum jubilee events will the Queen attend?

Saturday 21 May 2022 15:04 , Saman Javed

Four days of celebrations are scheduled to honour the monarch, including a platinum jubilee concert, Trooping the Colour, a pageant and a Service of Thanksgiving.

However, the question of whether the 96-year-old will be fit to attend all the events is still up for debate due to episodic mobility issues suffered by the Queen since the autumn.

In early May, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said that the Queen’s attendance at the platinum jubilee celebrations may not be confirmed “until the day itself”.

Despite this, the monarch is currently expected to attend the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Thursday 2 June, a Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral on Friday 3 June, and the Epsom Derby on Saturday 4 June.

Joanna Whitehead has detailed everything we know so far:

What events will the Queen attend on the platinum jubilee weekend?

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

Saturday 21 May 2022 14:00 , Saman Javed

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have confirmed they will attend the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations along with their children, Archie and Lilibet.

Last week, Buckingham Palace announced that the family will not appear on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Trooping the Colour ceremony, as the Queen has restricted the line-up to working members of the Royal Family.

According to reports, the Sussexes will stay in their old home, Frogmore Cottage, during their time in the UK.

Chelsea Ritschel has the full story here:

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

When was the Queen’s coronation?

Saturday 21 May 2022 13:04 , Saman Javed

As the country gears up to celebrate 70 years of the Queen’s reign – the first time in British history that a monarch has reached this milestone – many people are reflecting on the Queen’s years of service.

The Queen was just 27-year-old when she ascended the throne in 1953.

Joanna Whitehead has the details here:

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

Saturday 21 May 2022 12:00 , Saman Javed

With a team of world-class chefs, access to the best food that money can buy, and dining rooms at palaces across the UK, you would have thought meal times are always prestigious in the Windsor household.

But as the Queen’s former chef, Darren McGrady, discloses in his book, Eating Royally: Recipes and Remembrances from a Palace Kitchen, the monarch prefers to eat only small portions.

However, she does indulge in a daily afternoon tea, where scones with clotted cream and jam are a must.

Sophie Gallagher has the details on Her Majesty’s dining preferences here:

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

7 things you may not know about Princess Anne

Saturday 21 May 2022 11:15 , Laura Hampson

Although the royal family is a typically tight-lipped and genteel organisation, Princess Anne is known for her quick wit and dry humour, coming out with quips such as: “When I appear in public people expect me to neigh, grind my teeth, paw the ground and swish my tail – none of which is easy.”

The Princess Royal has had numerous remarkable experiences throughout her life. Here are seven you may not be aware of:

7 things you may not know about Princess Anne

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

Saturday 21 May 2022 10:23 , Laura Hampson

An extra bank holiday date tied with a royal jubilee means it’s a cause for celebration, so will pub opening hours be extended?

Joanna Whitehead has the answer here:

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

Eight towns win city status to mark platinum jubilee

Saturday 21 May 2022 09:55 , Saman Javed

A record-breaking eight towns across the UK have been awarded city status in celebration of the monarch’s platinum jubilee.

The new cities are among the areas in the UK that “make Britain great”, chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Steve Barclay said.

Those that triumphed in a competition to recieve civic honours include Colchester, Britain’s first recorded settlement, and Milton Keynes, a town formally established in 1967.

The towns of Dunfermline in Scotland and Wrexham in Wales were also successful.

Emily Atkinson has the full list of newly-crowned cities here:

Milton Keynes and Doncaster among eight new cities to mark platinum jubilee

What events will the Queen attend at the platinum jubilee?

Saturday 21 May 2022 09:01 , Laura Hampson

With the jubilee weekend now less than two weeks away, Her Majesty is expected to attend a total of three events across the weekend.

However, earlier this month Buckingham Palace released a statement saying that the Queen’s attendance at these events wasn’t likely to be confirmed until the day-of.

Joanna Whitehead has the run-down on which events the Queen will be attending here:

What events will the Queen attend on the platinum jubilee weekend?

Saturday 21 May 2022 08:32 , Laura Hampson

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

Friday 20 May 2022 19:21 , Laura Hampson

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

This is the Queen’s favourite alcoholic drink

Friday 20 May 2022 18:58 , Laura Hampson

Darren McGrady, who previously worked as a personal chef for Queen Elizabeth II for over a decade, and later served Princess Diana and her two sons, William and Harry, once divulged everything that the Queen eats in a day.

Sharing a series of videos on YouTube, the former royal chef explained that during his time working for the monarch between 1982 and 1993, the Queen enjoyed four small meals a day, and always took afternoon tea - even when they were on the Royal Yacht Britannia on a tour of Australia.

Find out what the Queen’s favourite tipple is here:

The Queen’s favourite alcoholic drinks, according to former royal chef

Why Kate Middleton can’t vote

Friday 20 May 2022 17:43 , Laura Hampson

Kate Middleton is forbidden from going to the ballot box. After Kate entered the royal family, she could no longer express her political views in public, and must always remain politically impartial in interviews and at events.

According to the official royal website this is “convention” rather than law. “By convention, The Queen does not vote or stand for election, however, Her Majesty does have important ceremonial and formal roles in relation to the government of the UK.”

Here are all the other things the Duchess cannot do:

Kate Middleton can’t vote, and other everyday things she’s not allowed to do

New TfL map released featuring Elizabeth Line

Friday 20 May 2022 16:34 , Laura Hampson

The latest tube map has been revealed by Transport for London (TfL), featuring the soon-to-launch Elizabeth Line.

The map of London’s underground network looks busier than ever, with the Elizabeth Line - part of the Crossrail project - sketched out in purple.

The Elizabeth Line is set to launch on Tuesday, 24 May, some 41 months later than originally planned.

Deputy Travel Editor Lucy Thackray has the full report here:

New TFL tube map released featuring Elizabeth Line

Jennie Bond: ‘Charles will make a fine King’

Friday 20 May 2022 15:57 , Laura Hampson

Jennie Bond has said that Prince Charles will “make a fine King” during an exclusive event hosted by The Independent on Thursday evening.

Bond was joined by Independent journalists Sean O’Grady and Sunny Hundal to discuss the Queen’s upcoming platinum jubilee, her 70-year reign, and what the future of the monarchy might look like.

You can watch the full discussion, hosted by Laura Hampson, here:

Jennie Bond: ‘Charles will make a fine King’

Prince Harry and Meghan ‘filming at-home documentary series for Netflix'

Friday 20 May 2022 14:48 , Laura Hampson

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are reportedly filming an “at-home” documentary series with Netflix.

Film crews have been given permission to film Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at their home in Montecito, California, and followed them on their trip to New York City last September.

Saman Javed has the full story here:

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ‘filming at-home documentary series for Netflix’

Kate wears Roland Mouret dress at premiere

Friday 20 May 2022 13:32 , Laura Hampson

The Duchess of Cambridge went for a sleek, monochromatic look with her outfit choice at Thursday evening’s premiere for Top Gun: Maverick, which she attended alongside her husband, the Duke of Cambridge, and the film’s lead actor, Tom Cruise.

For the occasion, Kate chose to wear a fitted, off-shoulder black and white gown by Roland Mouret that went down to her ankles.

She chose to wear her hair loose and accessorised the look with minimal jewellery, opting for just a simple pair of drop earrings and no necklace.

Olivia Petter reports:

Kate Middleton dazzles in Roland Mouret dress at Top Gun premiere

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

Friday 20 May 2022 12:23 , Laura Hampson

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

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

The Duchess told staff at the facility: “How lucky they are to have you here for them. It has been hidden for so long, people never talked about it. But now it is alright to talk about it. There is nothing to be ashamed of.”

Read more here:

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

Milton Keynes and Doncaster among eight new cities to mark Queen’s platinum jubilee

Friday 20 May 2022 11:17 , Laura Hampson

A record-breaking eight places across the UK and beyond have been awarded city status to mark the Queen’s platinum jubilee.

The new cities that triumphed in a competition to receive civic honours range from Colchester, Britain’s first recorded settlement, to Milton Keynes, a town formally established in 1967.

Emily Atkinson has the full report:

Milton Keynes and Doncaster among eight new cities to mark platinum jubilee

Prince Charles dances during traditional drum show in Canada

Friday 20 May 2022 10:06 , Laura Hampson

Charles busted some moves as he took part in 1,000-year-old traditional Dene Drum Dance in Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories.

The Prince of Wales spoke to Chief Edward Sangris and Chief Fred Sangris in private about issues affecting indigenous people on his trip to see the Yellowknives Dene First Nation Leadership at the Chief Drygeese Government Building in Detta.

Read the full story here:

Prince Charles dances during traditional drum show in Canada

Camilla presented with stress ball made from beaver fur in Canada

Friday 20 May 2022 09:13 , Laura Hampson

On the last day of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall’s tour of Canada, Camilla laughed when she was presented with a fluffy gift in Yellowknife, Canada, and was told it was a stress ball made of beaver fur.

“Everybody needs a stress ball,” Camilla said.

Jane Dragon, 81, handmade the ball for the Duchess, explaining: “It’s from sheared beaver.”

Read the full report here:

Camilla given ball made from beaver fur in Canada: ‘Everybody needs a stress ball’

Kate Middleton helped up red carpet steps by Tom Cruise at Top Gun premiere

Friday 20 May 2022 09:04 , Laura Hampson

Prince William and Kate Middleton dazzled on the red carpet at the UK premiere of Top Gun: Maverick last night.

On Thursday, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrived at Leicester Square in London ahead of the film screening, with the duchess opting for an off-the-shoulder black and white gown by Roland Mouret for the occasion.

The Duchess wore her hair in a sleek straight style, and accessorised with a black clutch and dangling star statement earrings.

Chelsea Ritschel has the full story here:

Kate Middleton helped up steps by Tom Cruise at Top Gun premiere

Friday 20 May 2022 08:54 , Laura Hampson

Good morning and welcome to The Independent’s liveblog covering news of the Queen and the wider royal family in the lead-up to the platinum jubilee.

Tune in to our liveblog again tomorrow

Thursday 19 May 2022 17:25 , Saman Javed

That’s a wrap of our coverage today! Check back in tomorrow for more news and live updates about the Queen’s upcoming platinum jubilee celebrations.

Preparations are underway

Thursday 19 May 2022 17:20 , Saman Javed

A photograph shared to the Royal Family’s official Twitter shows preparations underway at Buckingham Palace ahead of the Platinum Jubilee weekend.

Spectator stands have been erected around The Victoria Memorial and railings have also been put in place.

70 facts about the Queen

Thursday 19 May 2022 17:00 , Saman Javed

The Queen is the longest-reigning monarch in British history, having spent 70 years on the throne.

From her first trip on the London Underground to details from her wedding to Prince Philip, here are some things you might not know about Her Majesty:

70 facts about the Queen to mark her Platinum Jubilee

Platinum Jubilee: What events are scheduled to take place and when is it?

Thursday 19 May 2022 16:30 , Saman Javed

The Platinum Jubilee celebrations will take place over four days. They will include the monarch’s birthday parade, Trooping the Colour, a Service of Thanksgiving and a Jubilee pageant.

See the full schedule here:

What events are scheduled during the Platinum Jubilee bank holiday?

How to make the lemon trifle crowned platinum pudding for Queen’s jubilee

Thursday 19 May 2022 16:08 , Saman Javed

A lemon and amaretti Swiss roll trifle is the official pudding of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

The dessert, created by Jemma Melvin, a copywriter from Southport, Merseyside, was inspired by the lemon posset served at the Queen’s 1947 wedding to Prince Philip.

Keen to make your own Jubilee pudding? Joanna Whitehead has detailed Melvin’s recipe in full:

How to make the lemon trifle crowned Platinum Pudding for the Queen’s Jubilee

What is the Queen’s last name?

Thursday 19 May 2022 10:57 , Laura Hampson

As many people reflect on the Queen’s historic reign, some royal admirers might be surprised to learn that they’re not entirely familiar with our monarch’s full name.

If you’re unsure what the Queen’s last name is, Joanna Whitehead has laid it out here:

What is the Queen’s last name?

First Nations leader calls for Queen’s apology over indigenous children scandal

Thursday 19 May 2022 10:23 , Laura Hampson

The Prince of Wales has not apologised on behalf of the Queen for the “assimilation and genocide” of Canada’s indigenous residential school children but instead “acknowledged” the nation’s dark past, First Nations leaders have said.

RoseAnne Archibald, national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, appealed directly to Charles for an apology from the monarch during a reception in the Canadian capital where many leading figures from the country’s indigenous community were invited, along with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other prominent individuals.

You can read the full story here:

First Nations leader calls for Queen’s apology over indigenous children scandal

What is operation London Bridge?

Thursday 19 May 2022 09:47 , Laura Hampson

The day that Queen Elizabeth II dies will elicit a series of carefully constructed plans that have been in place since the 1960s in a process dubbed “Operation London Bridge”.

Oivia Petter has the complete run-down on the process here:

The secret plan for after the Queen dies has been updated

William and Kate to attend Top Gun: Maverick premiere in London

Thursday 19 May 2022 09:18 , Laura Hampson

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will make an appearance at the UK premiere of the highly anticipated Top Gun sequel, Maverick.

The couple will join Tom Cruise for the London event on Thursday, which is taking place as a Royal Film Performance.

The fundraising event is held in aid of The Film and TV Charity, which supports people working behind the scenes in the UK’s screen sector.

Read the full report here:

William and Kate to attend Top Gun: Maverick premiere in London

Over 2,800 beacons will be lit to celebrate Queen’s platinum jubilee

Thursday 19 May 2022 08:55 , Laura Hampson

More than 2,800 Platinum Jubilee beacons will be lit across the globe in honour of the Queen’s 70-year reign, organisers have revealed as the two-week countdown to the national celebrations begins.

Read the full report here:

Over 2,800 beacons will be lit to celebrate Queen’s platinum jubilee

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

Thursday 19 May 2022 08:26 , Laura Hampson

With a team of world-class chefs, access to the best food that money can buy, and dining rooms at palaces across the UK, you would have thought meal times are always prestigious in the Windsor household.

Yet, as the Queen’s former chef Darren McGrady previously revealed, the Queen sticks to a pretty rigid schedule about what she eats and drinks.

Read the full story here:

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

Queen + Adam Lambert to open Platinum Jubilee concert

Thursday 19 May 2022 08:25 , Laura Hampson

Queen + Adam Lambert will open the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee concert 20 years after Brian May performed “God Save the Queen” on Buckingham Palace’s roof to mark the Golden Jubilee.

The Queen is celebrating 70 years on the throne in June, with a whole line-up of events taking place across the country to celebrate her reign.

One of the most star-studded events taking place over the bank holiday weekend is the Platinum Party at the Palace, which will be broadcast live on the BBC on Saturday 4 June.

Isobel Lewis has the full story here:

Full line-up for Platinum Party at the Palace concert for Queen’s jubilee announced

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