The Queen's Christmas message

The Queen records her Christmas message to the Commonwealth in 3D for the first time Credit: John Stillwell/PA Wire

The Queen has used her traditional Christmas Day message, filmed in 3D for the first time, to respond to the affection and enthusiasm shown by the nation during her Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The message was recorded earlier this month in the White Drawing Room of Buckingham Palace.

As her milestone year draws to a close, she described how she was left humbled by the huge crowds that turned out to mark her 60-year reign.

ITV News' Royal Editor Tim Ewart reports:

The Monarch said that she was struck by the "strength of fellowship and friendship" shown by well-wishers, most memorably during the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant when more than a million people lined the banks of the river.

Despite the cold conditions and persistent downpours, the crowds who witnessed the once-in-a-lifetime flotilla were "undaunted by the rain", she said in her address.

Well-wishers lined the Thames to watch the Diamond Jubilee Pageant Credit: PA

The Olympic and Paralympic Games were another highlight of 2012 for the Queen.

She paid tribute to the athletes, Olympic torch bearers and volunteer Games Makers for either inspiring the nation with their efforts or devoting themselves to others.

The Queen looks at the Olympic Flame as the Duke of Edinburgh shakes hands with torchbearer Gina Macgregor at Windsor Castle Credit: Steve Parsons/PA Wire
British quadruple gold medal winning Paralympian David Weir takes part in the London 2012 Victory Parade Credit: Dan Kitwood/PA Wire

The Queen also paid tribute to the Armed Forces and said:

Troops on tour in Afghanistan celebrate Christmas Credit: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

The broadcast was recorded on December 7, a few days after it was officially announced that Kate was pregnant, but there was no mention of the impending royal birth in the message.

The Christmas address is one of the rare occasions when the Queen does not turn to the Government for advice but is able to voice her own views.