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Queen celebrates birthday with Trooping the Colour parade

14/06/2008

The Queen has celebrated her birthday by observing the traditional Trooping the Colour parade in central London.

Members of the royal family were present at the coordinated routine and march past, performed by foot guards and household cavalry of the Household Division at Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall.

After the ceremony, which involves the regimental colours being displayed or 'trooped' by the soldiers, the Queen returned to Buckingham Palace where she observed a fly-past by the Royal Air Force from the balcony of the residence.

Since 1748 the parade has marked the head of state's official birthday. Even though the Queen's birthday is in April the ceremony is held in summer when good weather is more likely.

Prince Charles, the Duke of Edinburgh, Princes William and Harry and the Duchess of Cornwall were present at the parade.

Speaking to the BBC, Prince Charles said the event was "splendidly British" and was a "stirring and moving occasion" for spectators.