It was always expected to be quite something. Queen Elizabeth II has been on the throne for an unprecedented 70 years – a feat never before achieved in UK history and a milestone the world is unlikely to see again for generations.
Even the loftiest of expectations were surpassed by the splendour of the ceremonies, the fun of the festivities and the sight of so many senior royals coming together in honour of a woman who is truly a queen for the ages.
And what a queen she is. The monarch warmed hearts the world over whenever she made an appearance – and reminded everyone just how devoted she is to her life of service and duty.