Advertisement

  1. National

Queen is Britain's longest-reigning monarch

The Queen has thanked people from around the world for their "touching messages of great kindness" on the day she becomes Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

Her Majesty will have served for 63 years and seven months - approximately 23,226 days, 16 hours and approximately 30 minutes - by around 5.30pm today, overtaking the previous record held by Queen Victoria.

She told well-wishers in the Scottish town of Tweedbank that it was not a milestone she had never aspired to but that she was "very grateful" for the messages of support.

Earlier, David Cameron told the Commons that her reign had been "a golden thread running through three post-war generations".

View all 35 updates ›

Sturgeon praises Queen's 'dedication and wisdom'

Scottish National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon has paid tribute to the Queen during the inauguration of the new £294 million Scottish Borders Railway.

Ms Sturgeon said the Queen's reception showed the "strong admiration and affection" felt for her in Scotland.

"You have carried out your duties with dedication, wisdom and an exemplary sense of public service," she said.

"You are admired and held with great affection and esteem in the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world."

More on this story