Platinum Jubilee 2022: Charles and Camilla lead Big Jubilee Lunch

Charles and Camilla arrive at the Oval cricket ground to lead the nation’s Big Jubilee Lunch celebrating Queen’s seven-decade reign with a record-breaking 12 million parties across Britain

  • Prince Charles and Camilla have arrived at their Jubilee Big Lunch event in South London 
  • Millions to gather for 85,000 Big Lunches today as Jubilee draws to a close with Platinum Pageant 
  • The Mall is today looking spick and span after a swift post-Platinum Party overnight clear-up 
  • It is not known if the 96-year-old monarch will make an appearance at today’s procession
  • Charles, Camilla, and William and Kate are expected to appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony
  • ***Follow MailOnline’s live coverage of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations HERE*** 
  • Latest Platinum Jubilee news as the Queen celebrates 70 years of service

Prince Charles and Camilla have taken their seats at The Oval cricket ground to lead Britain’s Big Jubilee Lunch celebrating the Queen’s astonishing seven-decade reign.

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will see a 20ft felt piece of art featuring the Platinum Pudding, scotch eggs and fruit platters that will be given pride of place in the Grand Entrance of Buckingham Palace later this year.

Members of the local community, 70 volunteers who have been recognised as Platinum Champions through the Royal Voluntary Service’s Platinum Champions Awards, celebrity ambassadors and various charity representatives will be among the guests at the cricket ground. 

Charles and Camilla will also present the Platinum Champions with certificates and pins, before cutting a Big Jubilee Lunch cake – as a record-breaking 12million parties are held across the nation to celebrate Her Majesty’s 70 years on the throne.

They are expected to then join the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and other members of the royal family  on the Buckingham Palace balcony at the end of the spectacular 2½-hour £15million Platinum Jubilee Pageant from 2.30pm this afternoon.

It is hoped but not known if Her Majesty, 96, will make an appearance today, after she pulled out of two Jubilee events amid concerns for her health. Royal superfans will be nevertheless treated to holograms of the Queen beamed onto the Gold State Coach as it is paraded down The Mall, making it seem as if the monarch is in the carriage. 

Some 10,000 people including a cast of 6,000 performers are involved in staging the spectacular two-mile carnival route from Horse Guards, along Whitehall to Admiralty Arch and down The Mall to Buckingham Palace, echoing Her Majesty’s 1953 coronation procession. 

Elsewhere today, the Earl and Countess of Wessex will meet people creating the ‘Long Table’ down on The Long Walk leading up to Windsor Castle, which will attempt to break the world record for the longest dinner table by assembling 488 tables on the Long Walk outside the famous royal residence.

Meanwhile, David Beckham and his wife Victoria are set to host a special big lunch on Sunday for inspirational individuals as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The A-list couple will celebrate people who have made incredible contributions to their communities.

Those attending the couple’s lunch include MBE recipients such as Judith Harper, who was made an MBE for services to fostering, having fostered more than 100 children.

More than 600 international Big Jubilee Lunches are being planned throughout the Commonwealth and beyond – from Canada to Brazil, New Zealand to Japan and South Africa to Switzerland.

Prince Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall attend the Big Jubilee Lunch At The Oval on June 5, 2022

Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, stand next to decorations at The Oval cricket ground as they attend a Big Jubilee Lunch in London, June 5, 2022

Charles and Camilla at The Oval in South London on the fourth day of the Platinum Jubilee weekend, June 5, 2022

Charles and Camilla attend the Big Jubilee Lunch At The Oval on June 5, 2022 in London

Charles and his wife Camilla arrive at The Oval cricket ground to attend a Big Jubilee Lunch, June 5, 2022

Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall attend the Big Jubilee Lunch At The Oval on June 5, 2022

Charles and Camilla inspecting the spectacular Big Jubilee Lunch in The Oval, South London, June 5, 2022

Charles and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, look at decorations at The Oval cricket ground, June 5, 2022

Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall attend the Big Jubilee Lunch At The Oval on June 5, 2022 in London

Camilla is wearing an emerald green embroidered coat dress by Fiona Clare at The Oval, June 5, 2022

Guests wait for the arrival of the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, as Patron of the Big Lunch, at the Big Jubilee Lunch with tables set up on the pitch at The Oval cricket ground, London, Sunday June 5, 2022

A general view of food ahead of the visit by Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall to the Big Jubilee Lunch at The Oval on June 5, 2022

A general view of a sign ahead of the visit by Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall to the Big Jubilee Lunch at The Oval on June 5, 2022 in London

Charles attends a Big Jubilee Lunch at The Oval cricket ground in London, June 5, 2022

Camilla smiling and laughing as she attends The Oval cricket ground in London, June 5, 2022

Wet and grey conditions on The Mall in Westminster ahead of the Jubilee Pageant, June 5, 2022

A royal themed float due to be used in the Pageant waiting in Westminster this morning, June 5, 2022


Left, rubbish left on The Mall overnight after the Platinum Party at the Palace. Right, a police officer takes a photograph for a group of men on The Mall in London, June 5, 2022

Some 10,000 people including a cast of 6,000 performers are involved in staging the spectacular two-mile carnival route from Horse Guards, along Whitehall to Admiralty Arch and down The Mall to Buckingham Palace

Police officers patrol in wet and grey conditions on The Mall in Westminster, June 5, 2022

Royal enthusiasts wearing ponchos in The Mall in Westminster ahead of the Pageant, June 5, 2022

Mechanical horses named after horses owned by the Royals in Westminster, June 5, 2022

Colourful buses due to be used in the Pageant waiting in a side street in Westminster, June 5, 2022

A group of young dancers practice ahead of the Jubilee Pageant, June 5, 2022

Vintage vehicles due to be used in the pageant wait on Horse Guards Parade, June 5, 2022

Silver London cabs due to be used in the pageant in Westminster, June 5, 2022

A speaker system erected in front of the Houses of Parliament, June 5, 2022

The Prince of Wales accompanied by the Duchess of Cornwall, speaking on stage during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace, London, Saturday June 4, 2022

Prince George and Prince William smiling and laughing in the royal box at the Platinum Party at the Palace, June 4, 2022

Royal fans watch as Prince Charles, and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, appear on stage during the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee concert in front of Buckingham Palace, in London, June 4, 2022

The Prince of Wales accompanied by the Duchess of Cornwall, speaking on stage during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace, London, Saturday June 4, 2022

The Duke of Cambridge during the Platinum Party at the Palace, Saturday June 4, 2022

Duran Duran performs during the Platinum Party at the Palace in front of Buckingham Palace, London, on day three of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II

Mike Tindall, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Zara Tindall, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge and Prince George of Cambridge wave their Union Jack flags during the Platinum Party on Saturday night 

In a sweet tribute to the Queen’s 70-year reign, Diana also belted out Thank You while the words flashed on the giant screen behind her and the crowds eagerly waved their Union Jacks in the air

Kate Middleton sung along to one of the performances as the concert got underway at Buckingham Palace on Saturday


Sir Rod Stewart performed Sweet Caroline at the Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace on Saturday night

Seven-year-old Princess Charlotte looked delighted and pulled faces as she took her seat next to her big brother George 

The Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte waved their flags as they sung along to some of the performers

Prince Edward was joined by his daughter Lady Louise Windsor at the Buckingham Palace party on Saturday night

Sophie Wessex, elegant in a white eyelet dress, took her seat next to Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence and Princess Anne

The Duchess of Cambridge leaned across to speak to her children as the concert got underway outside the palace

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their family, centre, led the royal arrivals at the Platinum Party at the palace

Simon Le Bon of Duran Duran and Nile Rodgers (left) perform during the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace

The Prince of Wales took to the stage to pay a moving tribute to the Queen at the Jubilee concert.

Here is the full text of his address:

‘Your Majesty, Mummy,

‘The scale of this evening’s celebration – and the outpouring of warmth and affection over this whole Jubilee weekend – is our way of saying thank you, thank you from your family, the country, the Commonwealth, in fact the whole world.

‘On behalf of us all, I wanted to pay my own tribute to your lifetime of selfless service, in pictures, in words and in light.

‘Your family now spans four generations. You are our Head of State. And you are also our mother.

‘Your ‘strength and stay’ is much missed this evening but I am sure he is here in spirit… My Papa would have enjoyed the show and joined us wholeheartedly in celebrating all you continue to do for your country and your people.

‘Looking back, we think of the countless State occasions that are milestones along this nation’s road. And you will think of red boxes, filled with Government papers, at the end of the day.

‘You will remember those who have led this country. Indeed, all the countries you serve. And leaders across the entire world.

‘How things have changed… We think of all you have done to make the Commonwealth such an important force for good. You continue to make history.

‘And there was still time for fun amongst the work. We might have been celebrating that Derby winner this evening… next year perhaps?

‘But I know what really gets my mother up in the morning is all of you ladies and gentlemen, all of you watching at home. Represented here tonight in this great audience.

‘Your Majesty, you have been with us in our difficult times. And you bring us together to celebrate moments of pride, joy and happiness.

‘Maybe this year it really is coming home.

‘You have met us and talked with us. You laugh and cry with us and, most importantly, you have been there for us, for these 70 years.

‘You pledged to serve your whole life – you continue to deliver. That is why we are here. That is what we celebrate tonight.

‘These pictures on your house are the story of your life – and ours. So, Your Majesty, that is why we all say ‘thank you’.’

‘Now, ladies and gentlemen, I know the Queen is watching these celebrations which much emotion, having, I hope, finished her marmalade sandwich, including immense regret that she cannot be here in person with us this evening.

‘But Windsor Castle is barely 20 miles away so if we cheer loudly enough, she might, might just hear us. So let’s all join together.’

 

Last month Camilla told the Mail of her passion and determination to get as many members of the public out to celebrate as possible.

‘It’s just wonderful to get people back together again, isn’t it?’ she said. ‘It’s a lovely way to celebrate, it’s a lovely way to get to know your neighbours and to have a lot of delicious food and chat.’

Edward and Sophie will join Berkshire residents for their special lunch on the Long Walk, opposite Windsor Castle.

The Long Walk is being reinvented to create ‘the Long Table’ in celebration of the jubilee. This royal pair are also set to meet groups of street performers. The Big Lunch is an annual event aimed at celebrating community connections.

Peter Stewart, executive director of the Eden Project, where the idea for The Big Lunch comes from, told the Daily Mail: ‘Despite hard copies running out, demand for our digital packs is pushing that number up, so we think our estimates of more than 12million joining in on the weekend is modest.

‘That’s possible because of National Lottery support and the patronage of HRH Duchess of Cornwall, who has been behind us every step of the way.’

Mr Stewart was at pains to stress that people wishing to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee do not have to organise a formal event – even pulling up a chair and inviting neighbours over for a slice of cake will do.

The important thing, he said, was to stretch out a hand of friendship and be part of a ‘historical national event’.

Two neighbouring villages from adjoining counties are hoping to break the world record for the longest jubilee street party.

Goring, in Oxfordshire, and Streatley, in Berkshire, plan to create a kilometre-long (0.6 mile) celebration, with more than 500 tables spanning the full length of both village high streets.

In Morecambe, Lancashire, the town council’s party will see 300 tables stretched across the famous promenade – past the famous Eric Morecambe statue unveiled by the Queen in 1999.

Birmingham is hosting a major open-to-all event in its Victoria Square, while in Bognor Regis, on the South Coast, the whole town is being turned into a carnival with big screens.

In Bristol there will be an international celebration, highlighting the Queen’s global popularity. From Preston, where 10,000 people are expected at one event, to Portsmouth, where two events will see live entertainment and bandstand performances, communities are coming together.

The pageant is split into four acts: For Queen and Country with a military parade; The Time of Our Lives progressing through seven decades of culture, music and fashion; Let’s Celebrate telling the story of the Queen’s life in 12 chapters with corgi puppets and carnival creations; and the Happy and Glorious musical spectacle.

Celebrities will travel in decorated open top double decker buses for the decade-by-decade celebrations. 

A peloton of 300 cyclists, riding vintage bikes from across the seven decades of the Queen’s reign, is to travel down The Mall led by Sir Chris Hoy and cycling golden couple Dame Laura and Sir Jason Kenny.

Close to 200 national treasures will take to the stage to serenade the Queen by singing the national anthem at the grand finale of the Platinum Jubilee festivities. Stars including Sir David Jason, Harry Redknapp, Sir Cliff Richard, Sandie Shaw, Felicity Kendal, Joe Wicks and Holly Willoughby will join Ed Sheeran in a mass rendition of God Save The Queen outside Buckingham Palace at the end of the pageant.

Meanwhile, millions up and down the country will gather for 85,000 Big Jubilee Lunches, street parties, picnics and barbecues today. 

Last night the Prince of Wales called the Queen ‘Mummy’ and described how ‘you laugh and cry with us and, most importantly, you have been there for us’ in a moving, personal tribute to Britain’s longest-serving head of state after the Buckingham Palace concert.

The monarch received affectionate tributes from the Prince of Wales and national figures during Saturday night’s Platinum Party at the Palace that saw Sir Rod Stewart, Diana Ross and Duran Duran perform for thousands in The Mall.

Prince William’s speech at the Platinum Party at the Palace in full 

The Duke of Cambridge said he shared his grandmother’s optimism as he paid tribute to the Queen at the Platinum Party at the Palace concert.

Here is the full text of his address:

‘It’s wonderful to be here with you on this incredible night. And great to see Buckingham Palace turned into a giant Imax screen!

‘As I watch those extraordinary images – it does make me think of all the monumental and pioneering work of so many visionary environmentalists that have gone before.

‘I’m so proud that my grandfather and my father have been a part of those efforts.

‘And I’m in awe of people like the great Sir David Attenborough who look at the beauty and power of our Earth and then work to celebrate and preserve it.

‘I think of Rachel Carson from America, Wangari Maathai from Kenya, Sunita Narain from India and so many others.

‘While no one’s grandmother thanks them for talking about their age, my own grandmother has been alive for nearly a century. In that time, mankind has benefited from unimaginable technological developments and scientific breakthroughs.

‘And although those breakthroughs have increased our awareness of the impact humans have on our world, our planet has become more fragile.

‘Today, in 2022 – as the Queen celebrates her Platinum Jubilee – the pressing need to protect and restore our planet has never been more urgent.

‘But like her, I am an optimist.

‘Decades of making the case for taking better care of our world has meant that environmental issues are now at the top of the global agenda.

‘More and more businesses and politicians are answering the call. And – perhaps most inspiringly – the cause is now being spearheaded by an amazing and united generation of young people across the world.

‘Congratulations to all of them – they won’t accept the status quo, they won’t accept that change is too difficult to deliver. Never before have we had so much power to change the big things.

‘In the past 70 years mankind has put man on the moon. We have built the World Wide Web. And we have developed vaccines and solutions to some of the most life-threatening diseases on Earth.

‘When humankind focuses its mind, anything is possible.

‘It’s my firm hope that my grandmother’s words are as true in 70 years’ time as they are tonight that as nations we come together in common cause, because then there is always room for hope.

‘Tonight has been full of such optimism and joy – and there is hope. Together, if we harness the very best of humankind, and restore our planet, we will protect it for our children, for our grandchildren and for future generations to come.

‘They will be able to say – with pride at what’s been achieved – ‘What a Wonderful World’.’

And in a comic sketch that delighted the nation, the Queen had tea with Paddington Bear and revealed, like the furry character, she is partial to a marmalade sandwich.

Paying tribute to the monarch after his son the Duke of Cambridge’s rallying cry for climate change action, Charles, who was joined by his wife Camilla, said: ‘You pledged to serve your whole life – you continue to deliver.’

The future king, who began his heartfelt speech with ‘Your Majesty, Mummy’ just as he did at the Diamond and Golden Jubilee pop concerts, told the Queen: ‘You have been with us in our difficult times. And you bring us together to celebrate moments of pride, joy and happiness.’

He added: ‘You have met us and talked with us. You laugh and cry with us and, most importantly, you have been there for us, for these 70 years. You pledged to serve your whole life – you continue to deliver. That is why we are here. That is what we celebrate tonight.’

Charles reflected on the Queen’s every-growing family, which now stretches to 12 great-grandchildren, and on her dual role as sovereign and royal matriarch. He said: ‘Your family now spans four generations. You are our Head of State. And you are also our mother.’

And in a touching moment, Charles spoke of his ‘much missed’ late father the Duke of Edinburgh, calling him ‘My Papa’ and saying the Queen’s late husband Philip was there ‘in spirit’. 

Last night the Duke of Cambridge hailed the Platinum Jubilee concert as full of ‘optimism and joy’ as he praised the Queen for her ‘hope’ in the future of the planet.

William paid tribute to the positive outlook of his grandmother during a segment of the Platinum Party at the Palace dedicated to the environment and featuring Sir David Attenborough.

He echoed the Queen’s words from her speech to the Cop26 UN Climate Change summit, when she said working together in a ‘common cause’ always gave rise to hope.

The duke highlighted the efforts of ‘visionary environmentalists’ and went on to name broadcaster and naturalist Sir David and spoke about the pride he felt for ‘my grandfather and my father’, the Duke of Edinburgh and Prince of Wales, who have championed the natural world.

Speaking on stage to thousands gathered in The Mall, William said: ‘It’s my firm hope that my grandmother’s words are as true in 70 years’ time as they are tonight that as nations we come together in common cause, because then there is always room for hope.

‘Tonight has been full of such optimism and joy – and there is hope. Together, if we harness the very best of humankind, and restore our planet, we will protect it for our children, for our grandchildren and for future generations to come.’

Before the duke spoke, a pre-recorded message from Sir David was played featuring spectacular imagery of the planet with the Hans Zimmer orchestra playing a version of the Planet Earth II Suite as dancers from the Royal Ballet performed.

The crowds heard archive recordings of the Queen speaking about the future of the planet in 1989 during her Christmas Message: ‘The future of all life on earth depends on how we behave towards one another and how we treat the plants and animals that share our world with us.’

And an extract from the monarch’s Cop26 video message speech: ‘None of us underestimates the challenge ahead but history has shown that when nations come together in common cause there is always room for hope.’

William said it was ‘great to see Buckingham Palace turned into a giant Imax screen’ after video and audio from the Cop26 message was projected on to the London landmark alongside images of Philip and Charles.

He went on to say: ‘While no-one’s grandmother thanks them for talking about their age, my own grandmother has been alive for nearly a century. In that time, mankind has benefited from unimaginable technological developments and scientific breakthroughs.

‘And although those breakthroughs have increased our awareness of the impact humans have on our world, our planet has become more fragile.’

Drone Show above Buckingham Palace during the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace spelt ‘Thank You Ma’am’ in tribute to the Queen 

Guy Garvey of Elbow performs during the Platinum Party At The Palace

Andrew Lloyd Webber onstage during the Platinum Party

A conductor prepares to guide his band for Britain’s national anthem

Giles Terera performs songs from Hamilton onstage during the Platinum Party

Eurovision sensation Sam Ryder performs his hit song SPACE MAN in front of Buckingham Palace

The Queen delighted millions of viewers when she appeared in a surprise comic sketch with Paddington Bear to kick-start the Jubilee concert. Pictured: Queen Elizabeth II and Paddington Bear having cream tea and a marmalade at Buckingham Palace

The Queen performed a skit for the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace, where she and Paddington Bear chatted before she tapped along to ‘We Will Rock You’ by Queen to kick start the party and star-studded concert this evening

The bear congratulated the Queen on her reign of 70 years, saying: ‘Happy Jubilee Ma’am. And thank you. For everything’

People gathered along The Mall for the Platinum Party At The Palace concert outside Buckingham Palace

He added the need to protect the planet had ‘never been more urgent’, but like the Queen ‘I am an optimist’.

The royal family sang along, waved their arms and shared laughs as they enjoyed a night out at the Platinum Party at the Palace.

Princess Charlotte and Prince George sat in front row of the royal box between their parents, clapping along to Queen + Adam Lambert’s performance of Don’t Stop Me Now, as the youngsters stayed up late to make a surprise appearance.

The Windsors – as many as 40 of them out in force – joined in whole-heartedly with the chorus during Sir Rod Stewart’s rendition of the hit anthem Sweet Caroline as the words were projected onto the screen, with eight-year-old George delivering a ‘bom, bom, bom’ perfectly in time.

The Duchess of Cornwall enthusiastically waved her union flag up high, as the Prince of Wales moved his decisively to the beat.

Charlotte was at one point seen reading a programme, tapping her mother on the elbow, while at times Kate bopped up and down to the music.

The duchess burst out laughing when comedian Lee Mack tried to get the royal box to join in with his delivery of the late Queen frontman Freddie Mercury’s ‘Ay-Oh’ chant.

During Elbow’s appearance, Charlotte, in a sequinned red dress with matching red cardigan and with her hair down, peered forward to look at the stage.

Zara and Mike Tindall chatted with their heads close together during the show, as ex-rugby player Mike waved his union flag.

At one point George slumped down in his chair, leaning towards his father during the two-and-a-half hour run of performances, set on three stages in front of Buckingham Palace on the third day of the Jubilee bank holiday weekend.

For Jason Donovan’s rendition of Any Dream Will Do from Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Camilla moved her arms up high from side to side, as Charles did too before pausing to adjust his illuminated wristband.

The Cambridges also waved their flags, with William singing along with the words: ‘May I return…to the beginning.’

Sam Ryder, in a sequined union flag jumpsuit, performed his Eurovision hit Space Man and impressed Anne, who clapped afterwards, while Charles appeared to enjoy Andrea Bocelli’s singing.

Also in the royal box were Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie, as well as Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.

Would I Lie to You regular, comedian Lee Mack, taking to the stage during a scene change, mercilessly poked fun at those seated in the Royal Box, particularly PM Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie.

‘Welcome to the party of a lifetime at the gates of Buckingham Palace,’ he began.

‘And I’ll tell you what…. Finally we can say the words party and gate and it’s a positive,’ to gales of laughter and applause from the crowd estimated at 50,000, stretching right down the Mall to Admiralty Arch.

But Mack hadn’t finished with the VIPS. He then initiated a call and response ‘ayo’ chant with different sections of the audience, but when it came to the Royal Box, he made the sound they were supposed to repeat impossibly complicated, reducing them all to fits of laughter.

Queen + Adam Lambert delivered an electric opening to the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace concert with a selection of classic hit songs.

The act was introduced in a novel way as the Queen and Paddington bear initiated the beat of Queen’s We Will Rock You by tapping on China teacups during a special opening film.

American singer Lambert, 40, took to the stage dressed in a black and gold embellished coat to continue the beat alongside the Royal military band.

The rock band’s guitarist Brian May made another memorable entrance on stage by being raised from beneath the stage while shredding on his guitar.

May created a classic moment 20 years ago, during the 2002 Golden Jubilee celebrations, when he performed God Save The Queen on Buckingham Palace’s roof.

The Queen surprised millions of viewers by sharing a marmalade sandwich with everyone’s favourite animated bear

In a pre-recorded segment, Paddington and Her Majesty were pictured sharing a marmalade sandwich at Buckingham Palace

Adam Lambert, center, from the band Queen performs with the Royal Marine drummers at the Platinum Jubilee concert

Adam Lambert, center, from the band Queen performs with the Royal Marine drummers at the Platinum Jubilee concert

Adam Lambert performing during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace, London on day three

The BBC ‘s Party In The Palace kicked off with a spectacular appearance from Adam Lambert and Queen on Saturday night


During their opening number, Brian May incredibly appeared up from behind a golden stage on a huge platform as he rocked the guitar solo while Roger Taylor put on an incredible show behind the drums

Queen’s guitarist Brian May performs at the Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace on Saturday night

Brian May leaves the stage at the Platinum Jubilee concert taking place in front of Buckingham Palace, London

The crowd in The Mall during the Platinum Party at the Palace in the front of Buckingham Palace

The Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, the Duke of Cambridge, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Prince of Wales at the Platinum Party at the Palace as the show kicked off with a performance from Queen and Adam Lambert

The Duchess of Cambridge sits with daughter Princess Charlotte in the front row of the royal box for the Platinum Party at the Palace for the Queen’s 70th anniversary celebrations

Prince George of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge share a giggle during the Platinum Party at the Palace

Prince George and the Duke of Cambridge attend the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace

Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie and their husbands joined members of the Royal Family at the star-studded concert 

The Royal Box: The Duchess of Cornwall, the Prince of Wales and the Princess Royal attend the Platinum Party at the Palace

The line-up: Who performed at the star-studded Platinum Party at the Palace? 

The star-studded line-up for the Party at the Palace was as follows:

Queen + Adam Lambert

Jax Jones

Mabel

Stefflon Don

Elbow

Craig David

George Ezra

Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber

Mimi Webb

Lin-Manuel Miranda

Sir Elton John

Diversity

Sam Ryder

Sir Rod Stewart

Andrea Bocelli

Duran Duran

Nile Rodgers

Alicia Keys

Hans Zimmer

Celeste

Sigala & Ella Eyre

Mica Paris

Diana Ross

The rock group also performed Don’t Stop Me Now to a crowd of cheering fans as multi-coloured lights flashed across the stage.

Princess Charlotte and Prince George were also seen waving their Union Jack flags along to the song We Are The Champions as they sat in the Royal Box at the front in between their parents.

They were followed by Jax Jones who opened his set with his song You Don’t Know Me while sitting in a bed, which he previously said was in tribute to people making music from their bedrooms.

Behind him was a mock-up English Heritage blue plaque on a screen which read: ‘Jax Jones Bedroom Producer SE23 lives here.’

He then introduced rapper Stefflon Don, singer Mabel and musician John Newman – who joined him for different songs

Elbow followed up with a performance of One Day Like This alongside the Citizens of the World Choir, before Ashley Banjo and his dance troupe Diversity took to the stage.

They delivered an energetic routine to a number of British songs popular throughout the Queen’s reign.

Moving from the sixties to the songs of today, the group danced to The Beatles’ She Loves You, the Bee Gees’ Night Fever and David Bowie’s Let’s Dance.

They then danced to the Spice Girls’ Spice Up Your Life, One Direction’s What Makes You Beautiful and Stormzy’s Big For Your Boots.

Rapper and singer Craig David also performed his songs Ain’t Giving Up, Re-Rewind and Fill Me In – while rising star Mimi Webb sang her single House On Fire.

Earlier in the evening, Eurovision star Sam Ryder and Diversity’s Ashley Banjo were among the stars who praised the Queen’s service ahead of their performances.

Ryder, who was runner-up in the recent Eurovision song contest while representing the UK, was among the star-studded line-up who entertained a live crowd of 22,000 people and a television audience of millions.

Speaking backstage about the monarch’s 70 years on the throne, Ryder, 32, said he feels it is ‘so selfless to give your entire life to that service’.

He added: ‘How many of us could say that we could do that? It’s breathtaking. The way that she carries herself, it reminds us that strength can be gentle.

‘I think that’s so important, to me all the time. To carry yourself in a way where you’re bringing so many people together in unity and solidarity but doing it with such a subtle kindness.’

The singer revealed that he got the call to do the Jubilee concert while on the bus home from Eurovision last month, which left him feeling like he was ‘overflowing with joy’.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie Johnson are pictured arriving at the BBC’s Platinum Party for the Palace as part of the Queen’s celebrations for 70 years on the throne

Wales’s First Minister Mark Drakeford and wife Clare, are pictured in front of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria as they wait for the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace

 

Soaking up the atmosphere: Guy Garvey of the band Elbow performs at the Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace on June 4

Through the ages: Diversity performing during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace

In synch: Diversity performing in front of Buckingham Palace, London on day three of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Stefflon Don performs during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace, London

Pictured: Andrew Lloyd Webber (left) and Lin-Manuel Miranda performing during the Platinum Party at the Palace

Gorgeous George steals the show! Eight-year-old Prince belts out Sweet Caroline as William, Kate and Charlotte join the nation and sing along to star-studded Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace 

Prince George got into the celebratory spirit as he sung along to Sweet Caroline during the Queen’s Platinum Party at Buckingham Palace.

The eight-year-old royal belted out the lyrics as Sir Rod Stewart performed on stage in one of many adorable moments at the star-studded concert.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Princess Charlotte, seven, joined the nation in singing along to acts including Alicia Keys, Duran Duran and Craig David.

George, who earlier today made a surprise visit to Cardiff with his parents and sister, appeared in excellent spirits as he laughed and joked with his father in the Royal Box.

Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, Zara and Mike Tindall and Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice and their husbands were also in attendance.

Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex, who earlier today carried out engagements in Northern Ireland, also watched on from the stands, along with their children Lady Louise Windsor, 18, and James, Viscount Severn, 14.

Banjo, 33, performed with his dance troupe Diversity during the concert, in a sequence that celebrated Britain’s role in shaping music during Her Majesty’s reign.

Speaking before their performance, Banjo said that to describe the Queen as an ‘icon’ is an understatement, adding: ‘She’s just an extremely special person, such a unique human for the country and the world.’

Introducing a musical theatre segment of the concert, Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber kick-started five musical performances with a short duet American composer Lin Manuel Miranda.

Lord Webber said: ‘Your Majesty, your reign has outrun any theatre in history, an extraordinary achievement.’

Performances featured songs from musicals including Hamilton and The Lion King.

Queen guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor paid tribute to the monarch, who did not attend the party, before they took to the stage, describing her as an ‘incredible woman’ and hinting at the Paddington moment said she was a ‘very good sport’. 

Singer Sam Ryder, who came second in the Eurovision contest, wore a Union Jack jumpsuit as he sang ‘Space Man’ to cheers from the crowd. 

The crowd became animated and waved their hands in the air as flames and smoke were let off from the stage, whilst Prince Charles was seen clapping after the set.

Ryder was closely followed by George Ezra who performed his songs Green Green Grass and Shotgun. However, he appeared to drop the lyrics ‘on the day that I die’ during the first performance.

The Duke of Cambridge was seen turning around and laughing in the royal box. Ezra told the crowd it was ‘an honour’ to play for them.

Sir Rod Stewart, wearing a yellow suit, sang ‘Sweet Caroline’ as the joyous crowd waved their flags and cheered. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and their children could be seen singing along to the song.

William and his son George sang the song from the royal box, as did Kate. Welcomed to the stage as a ‘rock legend’, Sir Rod urged the crowd to join in as he performed. He also sang Baby Jane.

Meanwhile, athletes Tom Daley and Jessica Ennis-Hill took to the stage and told of their pride at representing the UK at the Olympics.

Diver Daley said: ‘When we see that flag going up the flagpole, we know that the whole country helped send us victorious.’

Ennis-Hill said it was a ‘priceless’ feeling to have made the Queen feel proud.

It came after rapper and actor Doc Brown told of the country’s sporting achievements.

Duran Duran have given a colourful performance on stage as they paid homage to British fashion. As the new wave band performed their hit song Girls On Film, a catwalk of models paraded down a walkway in extravagant outfits.

Sir Rod Stewart, wearing a yellow suit, sang ‘Sweet Caroline’ as the joyous crowd waved their flags and cheered

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, Prince George of Cambridge, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall during the Platinum Party at the Palace in front of Buckingham Palace on Saturday


Singer Sam Ryder, who came second in the Eurovision contest, wore a Union Jack jumpsuit as he sang ‘Spaceman’ to cheers from the crowd.

Sam Ryder performing during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace, London, on Saturday

Duran Duran and Nile Rodgers perform during the Platinum Party at the Palace staged in front of Buckingham Palace

Alicia Keys performs at the Platinum Jubilee concert taking place in front of Buckingham Palace on Saturday night

Prince William cheers and waves his flag during the Platinum Jubilee concert in front of Buckingham Palace on Saturday night

Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries and Home Secretary Priti Patel smile and take photos as they take their seats outside Buckingham Palace for a star-studded concert tonight

The segment opened with a projection onto Buckingham Palace of the Queen, showcasing her style over her 70-year reign.

The Duchess of Cambridge meanwhile swayed side-to-side as Duran Duran performed their hit Notorious. The band was accompanied by performers Nile Rodgers and Ms Banks as they then played their single Girls On Film. 

Inspiration from traditional monarch style could be seen in the outfits, including crowns and trains galore.

The outfits also included a nod towards the corseted structured dresses of days gone by, revamped with loud colours and floral prints.

Regal-style dresses with volume in vibrant colours of hot pink and electric yellow also featured. 

Singer Alicia Keys performed her song Superwoman, which the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall were seen applauding to. Keys then sang her song Girl On Fire.

Speaking to the crowd, she said: ‘You know when I’m in London, I feel like I’m home. It reminds me so much of New York. I love you London.’

She then played a transition of the City Of Gods before Empire State Of Mind.

Keys told the crowd: ‘If you believe in hope, this song is for you. We’re never going to let go of you.’

Throughout the Platinum Party, celebrities – including Daniel Craig, Sir Paul McCartney and Dame Julie Andrews – appeared in pre-recorded video clips to express their appreciation of the Queen’s service over her 70-year reign.

As part of the special Jubilee event, film footage of the Queen at her coronation was played with a voiceover of the monarch saying: ‘When I was 21 I pledged my life to the service of our people and I asked for God’s help to make good that vow. I do not regret nor retract one word of it.’.

It was followed by pre-recorded video messages from famous faces who spoke of their love for the monarch.

James Bond star Craig said: ‘Your Majesty, thank you for your continued presence in our lives, for your leadership, and for your unwavering grace and poise.

The actor, 54, also referenced the memorable sketch from the London 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony where it looked like Craig had jumped out of a helicopter with the Queen.

Recalling the moment, he added: ‘I will follow you anywhere Mam, out of any helicopter door.’

Beatles star Sir Paul, 79, paid his respects to the monarch by saying: ‘I love you like many other people, so congratulations and thank you for 70 beautiful years.’

While former US First Lady Michelle Obama praised the Queen for the kindness she had shown her and her family.

She said: ‘I want to thank you for your genuine warmth to our entire family.

‘Whether you were welcoming a nervous First Lady to Buckingham Palace for the first time, or your extraordinary kindness toward our children.

‘I feel deeply honoured to have spent time with you over the years. Thank you Ma’am, for your remarkable example.’

Broadcasters Roman Kemp and Kirsty Young led the BBC’s live coverage of the event, which was broadcast on BBC One, BBC iPlayer and BBC Radio 2.

Reflecting on the Queen’s reign, Kemp, 29, said: ‘People don’t understand the actual service that gets put in sometimes, I think.

‘Over that amount of time, the things that she’s done for the country, in terms of bringing awareness to certain causes, bringing awareness to things that need to be shouted about and being able to back it up, whether it be finances or press or whatever, it’s been amazing.’

He also noted the tourism that the monarch brings to the UK, adding: ‘She basically travels to countries all around the world showing who we are as Brits and that’s something that should never be snubbed and it should be celebrated.’

Comedian Lee Mack introduced the final performance of the evening, Diana Ross. Ross sang her song Chain Reaction and then delivered a message for the Queen.

‘Hello, from all the people here tonight, and millions watching around the world, we have one simple message to you: Thank you,’ she said.

She then sang Thank You and Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.

A Union Jack was projected on to Buckingham Palace and the Prince of Wales was seen clapping while Duchess of Cornwall waved a flag.

Ross then closed the show urging everyone to shout ‘Thank you’ to the Queen.

The Royal Ballet also featured during the special concert, with ballet dancer Lauren Cuthbertson saying it is ‘the most incredible feeling’ to have been selected to perform in honour of the Queen.

Other famous faces from the worlds of sport, stage and screen included Sir David Attenborough, tennis star Emma Raducanu, David Beckham, Stephen Fry and Dame Julie Andrews, with the evening also featuring a specially recorded performance from Sir Elton John.

George Ezra hailed the Queen’s 70-year reign as sovereign as ‘admirable’ and ‘mindblowing’ ahead of performing at the BBC’s Platinum Party at the Palace concert.

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