The Queen looks in good health as she prepares to celebrate her Sapphire Jubilee — as David Bailey releases portrait
THE Queen looked in good health as she chatted with well-wishers and accepted flowers from children at Sandringham.
The 90-year-old attended church as she prepared to celebrate her Sapphire Jubilee year.
Her reign began 65 years ago today when King George VI died.
She will become the first British monarch to celebrate a Sapphire Jubilee.
On February 6, 1952, aged 25, Elizabeth’s happy life as a young wife and mother of two small children changed instantly when she was told that her father, King George VI, had died at just 56.
She later said: “My father died much too young.
“So it was all a very sudden kind of taking on and making the best job you can, and accepting the fact that it’s your fate.”
Royal historian Sarah Bradford told how the Queen heard of her father’s death while on safari in Africa with Philip, who had been told by his equerry.
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Sarah said: “It was 2.45pm when the Duke told his wife her father had died — and consequently she had become Queen.”
A David Bailey portrait of her in sapphire jewellery has been re-issued for the anniversary.
And the Royal Mint has cast a £5 coin to celebrate.
The Queen and Prince Philip were greeted by 250 well-wishers at St Peter and St Paul church.
She showed no sign of illness and wore a turquoise outfit and hat with black velvet trim.