Video: Queen in Hitchin

Thousands lined the market square in Hitchin this morning hoping to see Her Majesty The Queen. Her visit to the town was her first stop in Hertfordshire as she continues her tour of the country.

The Queen spent time in the market square where she presented the volunteers at the British Schools Museum 'The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service'.

The Queen was then presented with a gift of lavender oil from the people of the town, made from the flowers in local fields.

Many of Hitchin's shops had closed for the day but some remained open with staff standing in the doorways and windows watching the royal visit.

Michelle White, from the nearby town of Shefford, was in the crowds. She said: "I think this is absolutely brilliant."

Another visitor to the town told us: "It was a wonderful day. It was absolutely fine and I love to see The Queen!"

After leaving Hitchin, The Queen went on to the Lister Hospital in Stevenage to officially open the new maternity ward, before heading for a private visit at Hatfield House.